# Modify your server settings

{% hint style="warning" %}
Avoid editing `server.properties` while the server is running.\
Stop the server, make changes, then restart.
{% endhint %}

### Objective

Change Minecraft settings (game mode, difficulty, PvP, view distance, etc.).

### Step-by-step guide

{% stepper %}
{% step %}
**Open settings**

On the dashboard, open the **Settings**.

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All file settings `server.properties` are shown here.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
**Edit key settings**

Useful examples:

* `gamemode` : default game mode.
* `difficulty` : difficulty.
* `pvp` : enables/disables PvP.
* `enable-command-block` : enables command blocks.
* `online-mode` : premium only (enable for security).
* `view-distance` : view distance (performance impact).
* `level-name` : name of the world folder used.
* `motd` : message in the server list.

Useful generator:

* MOTD: <https://minecraft.tools/fr/motd.php>

Click "**Save changes**".
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
**Restart and check**

Restart the server.

Check the console to ensure the server starts without errors.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

### Common issues

* **Changes not applied** : restart the server.
* **Server down after change** : undo the last change, then restart.
* **“Lost” world** : check `level-name` and the world folder.

### FAQ

#### Can I edit the MOTD elsewhere?

Yes, via the MOTD field on the dashboard: [Customize its MOTD in the server list](https://docs.oxygenserv.com/en/minecraft/personnaliser-son-motd-dans-la-liste-des-serveurs).