# How to Fix Out of Memory Errors on a Minecraft Server

> Your server crashed with OutOfMemoryError. Here's why, and what to change.

Source: https://www.beaconhosting.org/knowledgebase/how-to-fix-out-of-memory-errors-on-a-minecraft-server
Category: Minecraft
Last updated: 2026-10-22

`java.lang.OutOfMemoryError: Java heap space` means the server needed more memory than it has.

## See how close you are

Watch the **Memory** graph on **Console** while players are on. If it climbs to your plan's limit before the crash, the server is running out.

## Common causes

| Cause | Fix |
|---|---|
| A large modpack | Modpacks often need 6–10 GB. Check the pack's recommendation |
| High `view-distance` or `simulation-distance` | Lower them in `server.properties` (8 and 6 are good starts) |
| Pre-generating or exploring a lot of new terrain | Pre-generate with Chunky when few players are on |
| Too many loaded worlds | Unload worlds nobody uses (`mv unload <name>` with Multiverse) |
| Huge farms and item piles | Fewer entities means less memory |
| A memory leak in a plugin or mod | Restart regularly with **Schedules**, and update the plugin or mod |

## Measure it

Install **spark** from **Package Manager** and run `spark health` to see memory use, or `spark heapsummary` to see what's using it.

## Need more memory?

Change your plan from **Service & billing** in the sidebar. Plan changes keep your files and world. See [How to Upgrade or Downgrade a Server](/knowledgebase/how-to-upgrade-or-downgrade-a-server-knowledgebase-beacon-hosting).

> [!NOTE]
> The server's memory limit is set by your plan; you don't need to set `-Xmx` yourself.