How to troubleshoot Minecraft server lag

Identify client FPS lag, server TPS lag, and network lag, then apply the right fix for each type.

Minecraft

latency

lag

tps

When players say "everything is lagging," the issue can come from different places. First identify the lag type, then apply the matching fix.

1. Identify the type of lag

There are three common lag types:

Client-side FPS lag: Stuttering visuals or low frame rate on a specific player's device.
Server-side TPS lag: Delayed mob AI, slow redstone, delayed block updates, or rubberbanding for multiple players.
Network lag (high ping): Players teleport back, hits register late, or only players far from the server region are affected.

2. How to check TPS

Use one of these methods:

If your server software supports it, run /tps in console or as an operator in-game.
On Paper-based servers, run /mspt or /spark tps for tick timing details.
If those commands are unavailable, watch for gameplay symptoms of low TPS such as delayed block breaks and slow entity updates under load.
On Java Edition to view server TPS, press F3+2 (you must be operator).

Healthy performance is usually around 20 TPS. Consistently lower values indicate server performance issues.

3. Fix server TPS lag

If TPS drops during player activity, chunk loading, farms, or redstone usage:

Reduce heavy load (large mob farms, excessive entities, aggressive redstone clocks).
Lower view/simulation distance when needed.
Restart the server to clear temporary load buildup.
If you are on a Budget plan, test an upgrade to Standard or Premium.

Even with lower RAM, higher tier hardware can improve real-world TPS. For example, moving from Budget 3 GB to Premium 2 GB may reduce lag. If it does not help, you can switch back.

4. Fix network lag

If the issue is high ping rather than low TPS:

Use the closest server region.
Prefer wired internet and avoid background downloads.
Run traceroute/WinMTR tests during the problem period.
On Java Edition to view bandwidth and ping, press F3+3.

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5. Fix client FPS lag

If only one or a few players are affected:

Lower video settings (render distance, particles, shadows).
Close other applications on the device.
Update graphics drivers and Java/Minecraft version.
Use performance mods or optimized clients where allowed.
On Java Edition to view client FPS, press F3+2.