# How to Reduce Lag on a Minecraft Server

> Work out whether lag is the server, the network or the player's computer, and fix the common causes.

Source: https://www.beaconhosting.org/knowledgebase/how-to-troubleshoot-and-reduce-lag-on-a-minecraft-server
Category: Minecraft
Last updated: 2026-11-05

"Lag" can mean three different problems. Work out which one first.

| What players see | Likely cause |
|---|---|
| Blocks reappear, mobs freeze, everyone rubber-bands | **The server** is overloaded (low TPS) |
| Only one player rubber-bands or has high ping | **That player's connection** |
| Low FPS, stuttering, even in singleplayer | **The player's computer** |

## Check the server

Run `spark health` in **Console** (install **spark** from **Package Manager** first if it says the command doesn't exist). **TPS** should be 20 and **MSPT** under 50. Also check the CPU and memory graphs on **Console**.

If the server is the problem, run a profile to find the cause: see [How to Find Lag With spark](/knowledgebase/how-to-install-spark-and-run-a-spark-profiler-on-a-minecraft-server).

## Common fixes

1. **Lower `simulation-distance`** in `server.properties` to 6–8. This is the biggest single win.
2. **Lower `view-distance`** to 8–10.
3. **Pre-generate the world** so exploring doesn't generate chunks live: see [How to Pre-Generate a World](/knowledgebase/how-to-pre-generate-a-world-on-a-minecraft-fabric-server).
4. **Run Paper** for plugin servers, or add performance mods on Fabric: **Lithium**, **FerriteCore**, **C2ME**.
5. **Cut entity counts**: huge mob farms, item piles and hopper chains are common culprits.
6. **Restart regularly** with a schedule.

## Memory

If **Console** shows memory near your plan's limit, or the log shows `OutOfMemoryError`, the server needs more RAM or fewer mods. You can change plan from **Service & billing**.

Still lagging? [Open a ticket](/billing/tickets) with a spark profile link.