How to free up disk space on a Minecraft server

Minecraft worlds, logs, plugins, and backups can fill your server's storage over time. Use this guide to find large files and safely reclaim space.

Storage limits by hosting tier

The storage limit includes the entire server: worlds, plugins, mods, logs, configuration files, and uploaded archives.

A Free tier server that exceeds 4 GB cannot start until you remove enough files. You can also upgrade to a paid tier when the server needs more permanent storage.

Check what is using disk space

Stop the server, then open Files in the instance panel. Check these common locations:

• world/, world_nether/, and world_the_end/ for large or unused worlds
• logs/ for old server logs
• crash-reports/ for old crash reports
• plugins/ and mods/ for unused files
• the server root for old .zip, .tar, or installer files

Files you can usually remove

• Old logs and crash reports after you no longer need them for troubleshooting.
• Archive files that you have already extracted.
• Plugins or mods you no longer use. Remove their data folders only if you no longer need their settings.
• Old world folders that are not selected by level-name in server.properties.

Reduce world size

World data is often the largest part of a server. Exploring new terrain generates more chunks and increases storage use. Remove only worlds you no longer need. For an active world, use a trusted chunk-trimming tool and always test the result from a backup first.

Prevent storage from filling again

• Remove obsolete logs and archives periodically.
• Avoid keeping local backup archives inside the instance.
• Limit unnecessary world exploration with a world border.
• Review unused plugins, mods, and worlds after major changes.

After cleaning up, start the server and confirm that the world, plugins, and mods load correctly.