Case overview
This project was centered on building a robust and scalable Minecraft network infrastructure that could seamlessly serve both Java Edition and Bedrock Edition players. By combining Docker containerization with GeyserMC, the setup not only simplified deployment and scaling but also eliminated the traditional platform divide, enabling console, mobile, and PC players to join the same server ecosystem.
Involvement
- Docker
- Proxies
- Scalability
- Redudancy
- Cross Platform
The Brief
The network was architected to meet the needs of a growing community, with a strong emphasis on performance, security, and long-term maintainability. The end result was an enterprise-grade Minecraft hosting solution that could be easily replicated for other gaming communities or expanded into a commercial offering.
- Cross-Platform Play
- Scalability and Flexibility
- Operational Efficiency
- High Availability
Our Approach
Containerized Architecture
The entire infrastructure was encapsulated within Docker containers, each serving a distinct role — from core Minecraft server instances to proxy services and database backends. Docker Compose managed the orchestration, ensuring each service could be started, stopped, or replaced independently without affecting the rest of the network. This isolation increased both security and fault tolerance.
Persistent volumes were used to store world data, plugin configurations, and logs, allowing container updates without risk of data loss. This meant server administrators could roll out new updates within minutes, without the downtime and manual intervention traditional hosting methods often require.
Cross-Platform Middleware (GeyserMC + Floodgate)
At the heart of the cross-platform integration was GeyserMC, a proxy that translates the Minecraft protocol between Java and Bedrock editions in real time. This was paired with Floodgate, which handled Bedrock authentication, allowing players to join without needing a separate Java Edition account. The combination allowed console and mobile players to connect seamlessly to the Java server network, with little to no gameplay disparity.
Proxy and Load Balancing Layer
A Velocity proxy network served as the central routing hub, enabling features such as server switching, load balancing, and fallback servers in case of individual instance failure. This architecture also made it possible to host multiple game modes (Survival, Creative, Mini-Games) in parallel while maintaining a single entry point for players.
Monitoring and Diagnostics
The network was equipped with a Prometheus and Grafana stack for real-time performance monitoring, tracking metrics such as tick rates, CPU/RAM usage, and player counts. Centralized logging via Loki streamlined debugging by consolidating logs from all containers into a single searchable interface.
Market Expansion
Cross-platform capability broadened the player base, reaching console and mobile audiences in addition to traditional PC players.
Reduced Downtime
Updates and patches could be deployed in under five minutes with no full server restarts, maintaining player engagement.
Operational Cost Savings
Efficient resource allocation via containerization reduced hosting costs compared to monolithic deployments.
Community Growth
The frictionless joining process for Bedrock players encouraged more casual gamers to participate, driving sustained growth.
The Results
Rapid Deployment and Update Cycles:
Automated containerized deployments reduced update and patch rollout time from several hours to under 10 minutes, minimizing downtime and enabling frequent content updates. This agility contributed to improved player retention and satisfaction.
High Performance and Stability:
By leveraging Docker containerization and efficient proxy management, the network maintained an average uptime of 99.9%, even during peak traffic times. Server tick rates remained stable above 18 TPS (ticks per second), ensuring smooth gameplay and minimal latency.
Operational Cost Reduction:
Resource isolation and efficient scaling within Docker containers led to a 25% reduction in hosting costs compared to traditional virtual machine-based server deployments. This cost efficiency freed budget to invest in community events and server enhancements.
