How to Enable or Disable PVP on Your Minecraft Server

PvP – short for Player vs. Player combat – is a core gameplay mechanic in Minecraft that allows players to damage or kill each other. On some servers, it’s essential for gameplay, like in factions, minigames, or survival challenges. On others, especially cooperative, creative, or family-friendly servers, it can lead to griefing, frustration, or accidents you’d rather avoid.

Fortunately, it only takes a few quick edits to your server.properties file through your server’s control panel to enable or disable PVP.

Step 1: Log in

Log in to your Nexus Hosting Account.

Step 2: Select the Server

Once on the dashboard, find and select your intended Minecraft server.

Step 3: Stop the Server

Before making any changes, stop the server to avoid potential data issues. On the Terminal page, click the red Stop button.

Step 4: Open server.properties

Now, click Files in the sidebar. Locate and select the server.properties file from the list.

Step 5: Change the PvP Setting

Find the line that says pvp=true. If you want to leave PVP on, you don’t have to make any changes. If you want to disable PVP, set it to false.

Then click Save Content.

Step 6: Restart the Server

You can now restart your server, clicking the green Start button on the** Terminal** page.

Updated on: 05/05/2025