When Minecraft's gaming environment grows, demands on server resources also increase.
This can cause lag and slow performance, highlighting the importance of chunk loading and unloading in keeping server performance optimal.
In this article, we'll explore what chunks are, how they're created, and ways to optimize chunk loading and unloading in order to enhance overall server performance.
Understanding Chunk Loading and Unloading
The game world is split into small sections called chunks which are loaded and unloaded by the server based on where players are moving.
These chunks are fairly small at only 16x16 blocks but can have different types of game data in them like terrain, structures, and entities.
Chunks are removed from memory when players move too far away, and reloaded again when they come back within range.
The performance of servers in multiplayer environments can suffer significantly due to loading and unloading of chunks. Inadequately optimized large worlds can lead to lag, eventually causing an unsatisfactory gaming experience for participants exploring various parts of the game universe.
Optimizing Chunk Loading and Unloading
Follow these instructions step-by-step to improve the efficiency of chunk loading and unloading:
Adjust the Render Distance
Adjusting the render distance can have a positive effect on server load and performance, particularly for lower-end hardware.
By altering the number of chunks loaded around a player, these benefits can be achieved.
• Adjust the setup of your Minecraft server by modifying the server settings or configuration file.
• Find the setting for render distance and adjust it to your desired value. We recommend a value of 8 to 10 for most servers.
Using Pre-Generated Worlds
Generating the game world in advance can lessen the burden on the server by not having to create fresh parts when players discover them.
This method can enhance server performance greatly.
• Utilize a tool from an external source, such as WorldBorder, to establish the magnitude of your game universe.
• Create your Minecraft world through the server console or with a tool such as MCProHosting.
• Try the Chunky plugin for generating chunks ahead of player exploration to enhance gameplay.
Allocating More Server Resources to Chunk Loading and Unloading
Increasing RAM and CPU resources allocated to loading and unloading chunks can enhance Minecraft server efficiency.
• Configure your Minecraft server or access its settings file.
• Customize the RAM and CPU allocation to your preference. It's advised to assign at least 2 GB of RAM for small servers, while larger servers can benefit from up to 8 GB of allocated RAM.
Limiting Player Movement
Reducing player movement can optimize server performance as it affects the loading and unloading of chunks in the game world.
• You can utilize a tool such as the WorldGuard plugin to define limits for your virtual game environment.
• Consider incorporating a tool such as the Essentials plugin to regulate the in-game movement speed or teleportation timing for players.
Advanced Techniques for Chunk Loading and Unloading
If you're looking to enhance your Minecraft server even more, we've got some advanced methods that might interest you:
Using Mods and Plugins to Improve Performance
To improve performance, you can utilize various mods and plugins that aid in chunk loading and unloading optimization. These tools can lessen server load, optimize network traffic, and cache chunks.
• Discover and incorporate Minecraft server modifications and extensions that are in line with the specific version and structure you are using. (Here are some examples of plugins: ClearLagg, WorldBorder, Chunky)
• Set up the modifications and plugins as per their individual guidelines.
Implementing Chunk Caching
To lighten the load on the server, frequently utilized chunks are stored in memory, a technique known as chunk caching.
• Optimize chunk caching by implementing a plugin such as ClearLagg.
• Optimize the plugin to store frequently accessed blocks in RAM.
Using Chunk Pre-Loading
Loading chunks in advance of player exploration, also known as chunk pre-loading, has been shown to effectively decrease server load.
• Adjust the dimensions of your game world with an add-on such as WorldBorder.
• To optimize player exploration, it's advisable to pre-load chunks in advance using a a plugin such as Chunky.