The online-mode line is missing, or the server stops when I set it false — how do I fix it?

Two common online-mode problems trip people up: the line is missing entirely, or the server stops the moment you set it to false. Both are quick to sort out.

If the line is missing

Just add online-mode=false on its own line in server.properties (via the Files tab) and restart. Minecraft will read it normally.

If the server stops when you set it false

This is usually an unrelated startup error that happened to surface at the same restart — a plugin, a RAM issue, or a bad edit. To find the real cause:

1. Read the Console for the actual error message.
2. Confirm you didn't add stray spaces — online-mode = false with spaces can misparse. Use online-mode=false with no spaces.

Tip: When a server won't start after an edit, the Console almost always names the real culprit. Share the log via mclo.gs (the "Share logs via mclo.gs" button in the Console) if you need help reading it.

Frequently asked questions

I added the line but nothing changed — why? You probably didn't restart, or there are spaces around the =. Fix the spacing and restart.

The server crashes only after I change online-mode — is that the cause? Not necessarily. Often it's a separate error surfacing on the same restart. Check the Console for the true error.

How do I share my log for help? Use the "Share logs via mclo.gs" button in the Console and send us the link via ticket.