SMP means survival multiplayer: people gathering, building and exploring a shared world. The name alone does not tell you whether a server is private, vanilla or peaceful. Look for the community’s rules on claims, player combat, resets and membership before choosing a place to build.
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SMP: gameplay & guides
See cooperative survival and long-term building through Hermitcraft episodes from Mumbo Jumbo and Grian. Hermitcraft is a private creator SMP, shown here as inspiration for shared-world play.
SMP tutorials
Guides for joining and thriving on a survival multiplayer world: early priorities, community habits and practical tips. Rules and plugins still belong to each server.
Set up an SMP server
Create a Paper Minecraft server suitable for a small SMP, from a local jar to a longer start-to-finish walkthrough. Check software and plugin versions against your intended release.
Videos belong to their creators. Examples may use custom rules, mods or older releases. Check individual listings for current server features and access. The YouTube player loads when you press play.
A closer look at this directory
This directory currently has 2,914 servers. The 20 shown on this page include 20 declaring Java support and 18 declaring Bedrock support; 18 declare both. Listings supporting both editions appear in both counts.
Tags on these listings: BedWars, Creative, Factions, OneBlock, Pixelmon, Prison, PvP, SkyBlock.
Declared version groups: 26, 1.20, 1.7, 1.8, 1.16, 1.2. What version labels mean.
What to check on a SMP server
Choose a community size
A smaller group may expect regular participation; an open network may let you come and go. Read the application process and visit during your own play hours to see how people interact.
Understand the social rules
Borrowing items, building near someone and joining group projects may have specific expectations. Look for a clear way to report disputes rather than relying on an informal promise of friendly players.
Check world continuity
Ask which dimensions reset and whether inactive bases are removed. A shared resource world can reduce pressure on the main map, but it does not establish a permanent-build guarantee.
Compare survival changes
Claims, shops, teleportation and custom items can all appear on an SMP. Pick the features you want and check farm restrictions before importing a singleplayer design.
Need connection help? Follow the Java joining steps or Bedrock joining steps.
SMP server FAQs
Is SMP a separate Minecraft game mode?
It is a community label for survival multiplayer. The underlying server can use ordinary survival rules, plugins or a modpack.
Do SMP servers require an application?
Some use a whitelist or interview; others accept anyone. Check access requirements on the listing and allow time for approval before planning a group session.
Is SMP always peaceful?
No. PvP, theft and griefing policies differ. Choose a server with explicit protections if you want to build without player attacks.
Can I join an established world?
Usually if applications or registration remain open. Ask about available land, starter help and whether existing progression makes the server a good fit for newcomers.
Will I need to use voice chat?
Only if the community requires it. Check its communication expectations, especially before applying with friends who prefer text chat.
What is a good first project?
Start with a small protected base and learn the community’s shared facilities. Ask before modifying public farms, paths or storage; their apparent availability does not establish permission.
Explore more game modes
These directories currently have listings to explore. Check each server’s details before changing editions or installations.
