How to set up a Minecraft Java server on Linux

Install HaruHost

On Ubuntu (x86-64), run:

curl -fsSL https://haruhost.com/install.sh | sudo bash

HaruHost installs as a service. Sign in with the QR code it shows in your SSH session, then open the web panel from any browser.

What HaruHost does for you

Docker and Java: on Ubuntu, HaruHost installs Docker with one click, and every server gets the Java its version needs.
systemd, screen and tmux: not needed. HaruHost runs as a service and keeps the server running without an open SSH session.
Getting friends in: with the Tunnel, friends join with Multiplayer → Add Server and the Server Address, with no port forwarding.
Settings: the Server Settings page sets game mode, difficulty, whitelist, world and memory, as on Windows. server.properties is on the Files page.
Players: everyone who has joined with playtime, kick and ban, as on Windows.
Mods: Modrinth mods and modpacks for Fabric, Forge, NeoForge and Quilt, installed for you as on Windows; see mods.

Step by step

Run the install command and sign in.
In the web panel, choose Add → New game server, pick your Linux server, then Minecraft Java.
Pick the version, accept the Minecraft EULA and choose Tunnel or Ports.
Create the server. If Docker isn't installed yet, HaruHost asks first; press Install, then Create Server.
Start the server and send friends the Server Address from the Details tab.

Open the port

With the Tunnel, nothing needs to be opened. With Ports, open your port range for TCP in your VPS provider's firewall; HaruHost shows it under Devices → Manage device → Network Settings.

Questions

Do mods work on a Linux Minecraft server?

Yes. Choose a mod loader and add mods or modpacks from Modrinth, when you create the server or on its Modrinth Mods page. HaruHost installs the loader and the mods, so you don't copy jars into the mods folder by hand.

Can I run several Minecraft servers on one VPS?

Yes. Each server gets its own port from your port range, so they run side by side.