Getting started

Mako does not run on older Java. Some hosts still use Java 21 by default, so check first.

Run this in a terminal on your server:

java -version

The first line must say version 25. If it says 21 or lower:

• Your own machine: install Java 25 and run the command again.
• A hosting panel: look for a Java version setting in the panel and pick 25. If there is none, ask your host.

During pre-release, early buyers get the download link and every new build. A public download comes with the release. See early access.

Put the Mako jar in an empty folder for your server.

In the server folder, run this. Use the real name of your jar file.

java -jar mako.jar nogui

1. The first start creates the files and may stop.
2. Accept the Minecraft EULA by setting eula=true in eula.txt.
3. Start the server again. The world is made and the server comes up.

The default settings play like plain Minecraft.

The web dashboard is on by default. Until you finish the setup, it shows only the setup wizard.

1. Start the server and look at the console. It prints a one-time setup code.
2. Open the dashboard in your browser and enter the code in the setup wizard.
3. Follow the wizard. It pairs your browser with your server.

Keep the code private. Only someone who can read your console should have it.

With the Mako start script, restarts are about 2x faster. Use it instead of starting the jar by hand.

• The script comes with the download.
• Start the server with the script from now on.
• If your host starts the server for you, ask them to run the script.

All Mako settings are in one file:

config/mako.yml

• Every optimization has its own switch.
• Settings that change how the game plays are off by default.
• Optional features such as backups, the join queue and dupe alarms are off until you turn them on.
• Most changes load live. You do not need to restart.

Mako is based on Folia. A plugin must support Folia to run safely. Many older Paper plugins do not.

• Put plugins in the plugins folder as usual.
• At startup, the plugin checker shows which plugins are safe on Mako and Folia.
• If a plugin is not safe, look for a Folia version or ask the plugin author.