How to Set Up a Server Resource Pack on Minecraft
A server resource pack lets players download custom textures and sounds when they join. The server only points to the file, so you need to host the pack somewhere with a direct download link.
Host the pack
Upload the zip to a host that gives a direct download link, meaning the link downloads the file itself and does not open a web page. Share pages that ask you to click a download button will not work. Check the exact current size limit for your Minecraft version, as it has changed over time.
Get the SHA-1
The SHA-1 hash lets the client verify and cache the pack. Generate it on your computer, for example by running sha1sum pack.zip on Linux or Mac, or certutil -hashfile pack.zip SHA1 on Windows. Use lowercase for the value.
Edit server.properties
- Stop the server.
- Open server.properties in the Files tab.
- Set resource-pack to the direct URL.
- Set resource-pack-sha1 to the hash.
- Optionally set require-resource-pack=true to kick players who decline.
- Optionally set resource-pack-prompt to a custom message, if your version supports it.
- Start the server.
Updating the pack
When you change the pack, upload the new file and update the SHA-1. Using a new URL, such as a version number in the file name, avoids players receiving a cached old version.
Troubleshooting
- Failed to download: the link is not direct or has expired, or the host is blocking downloads.
- Hash mismatch: regenerate the SHA-1 from the exact file you uploaded.
- Players skip it: set require-resource-pack to true.
- Textures do not apply: the pack's pack_format may not match the game version, or the zip has an extra folder level, so pack.mcmeta must be at the top.
Ask on Discord if you need help.