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How to change the description of your server Minecraft Java

Learn to edit the line motd=in the file server.propertiesto customize the description that appears in the Minecraft Java server list.

Published in Matheus Henrique8 min read

Quick Summary

Where to change the server MOTD

The description of the Minecraft Java server is in the fileserver.properties, on the line motd=. You can write simple text or use colors and styles with the MOTD Generator by BedHosting.

Archive
server.properties
Line
motd=
Application
Restart server

Step by step

  1. 01

    Access the BedHosting dashboard

    Access our panel by clicking app.bedhosting.com.br and enter the server you want to change the MOTD.

  2. 02

    Open the file server.properties

    Access the section Files and find the fileserver.properties. If the file does not exist, restart the server so that it is created automatically.

  3. 03

    Locate the motd= line

    Open the file and look for the linemotd=. Pay attention to the spelling in lowercase letters. Edit only this line to avoid changing other server settings.

  4. 04

    Create your custom MOTD

    Access the MOTD Generator from BedHosting to put together a description with colors, styles and preview. If you just want uncolored text, write directly after motd=.

  5. 05

    Copy the correct output

    After creating the text, copy the output according to your server type:

    • Vanilla: use Unicode escapes like \u00A7.
    • Spigot/Paper: use codes with the symbol §.
  6. 06

    Paste the text after the equal sign

    Paste the result after the equals sign into the MOTD line. Example:

    motd=\u00A71\u00A7lBedHosting.com.br

    To use two lines, add \namong them:

    motd=Linha 1\nLinha 2
  7. 07

    Save and restart the server

    Save the file and restart the server from the panel. Ready: your MOTD will be displayed in the server list as configured.

Common mistakes when changing the MOTD

  • Edit the wrong line: just change motd=.
  • Forget to restart: the server needs to restart to load the new description.
  • Use incompatible output: if the symbol § doesn't work, use vanilla output with \u00A7.
  • Problems with accents: if accents or special characters fail, prefer the Vanilla model generated with Unicode escapes.

FAQ

What is MOTD in Minecraft?

MOTD is the message displayed in the Minecraft server list. It usually shows the name of the server, proposal, game mode, news or quick calls to the community.

Can I use accents on the MOTD?

It can, but some servers or clients may fail with special characters depending on the configuration. If this happens, prefer Vanilla output with Unicode escapes.

Do I need to restart the server to apply?

Yes. After saving the server.properties file, restart the server to ensure that Minecraft loads the new description.

Which output should I use: Vanilla or Spigot?

For Vanilla, use output with Unicode escapes, such as \u00A7. For servers with Spigot or Paper, output with the § symbol usually works fine.

BedHosting Information

BedHosting LTDA | CNPJ: 60.677.890/0001-00 | BedHosting.com.br