I'd like to turn a spare computer into a server eventually, probably to host a Minecraft world for friends. My Linux experience is limited, so I'm wondering what the most effective way to learn would be. Should I start with videos, written documentation, or a hands-on project? I'd also appreciate advice on which distribution would be beginner-friendly for this use case.
4 Answers
Think about how your friends will connect before exposing the server to the internet. Port forwarding the default Minecraft port is simple, but it makes the server visible to automated scans and requires careful security and updates. A private VPN such as Tailscale is safer for a small group because only authorized devices can reach the server, though everyone needs to install and configure the VPN client.
The most useful approach is to decide what you want the machine to do and learn as you build it. For a Minecraft server, start with a straightforward Debian or Ubuntu Server installation and focus on one service at a time. You’ll naturally learn about users, file permissions, software installation, networking, and backups as you configure everything.
Learn by doing, while looking up each problem as it comes up. For a simple Minecraft setup, begin with Debian or Ubuntu Server LTS and a Paper server rather than jumping straight into containers. The main topics to practice are SSH for remote administration, basic shell commands, editing files with nano, installing and updating packages with apt, and managing services with systemd. Set the Minecraft service to start automatically after rebooting.
For structured practice, work through a beginner Linux course that teaches the command line, users and groups, permissions, package management, processes, and services. Videos are fine if they help you stay engaged, but use documentation and your own test machine to reinforce what you learn. Ubuntu Server is a reasonable beginner choice, although Debian is also an excellent option and the skills transfer between them.
I’ll look for a hands-on course and follow along on the spare machine.
Thanks, that gives me a really practical starting point.