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Julio Dondisch
November 28, 2025

How to Set Up a Whitelisted Minecraft Server

Enable whitelist mode and manage who can join with simple commands.

Want a private server that only invited people can join? In this guide you will learn what whitelist mode works and the simple steps to add and remove players.

What whitelisting does

Whitelisting blocks all players except the ones you specify by name. It is the easiest way to keep your world private and friendly. You can turn it on and off at any time.

Steps to enable and manage

First, enable whitelist mode in your server console or configuration so only listed names can join.

  • Turn whitelist on.
    Use the console command whitelist on.

  • Add a player.
    Use whitelist add <playername> to allow someone in.

  • Remove a player.
    Use whitelist remove <playername> if you need to revoke access.

  • View the list.
    Use whitelist list to see current entries.

  • Turn whitelist off.
    Use whitelist off if you need to open the server for a while.

Keep player names accurate. If a friend cannot join, check spelling and confirm they are using the same edition and version as your server.