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Offline Mode (Cracked Server)

Offline mode (commonly referred to as a “cracked server”) is a Minecraft server configuration that disables Mojang account authentication. This allows users without a verified Minecraft account to join the server using any username. While this setting exists in the Minecraft server software, using it in production or public hosting environments is strongly discouraged due to legal, ethical, and security concerns.

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What Is Offline Mode?

By default, Minecraft servers use online mode, which verifies player accounts with Mojang’s authentication servers. This ensures only legitimate, paid Minecraft users can join. When online mode is disabled, the server skips this verification process, allowing anyone to join using any username. This is intended for local testing environments or LAN servers.
⚠️ Important Notice: Disabling authentication enables piracy and significantly weakens server security. qwilo.tech does not support or recommend using offline mode on any publicly hosted server.
To enable offline mode:
  1. Log in to your qwilo.tech server panel at control.qwilo.tech.
  2. Select the server you wish to configure.
  3. Stop the server from the Overview or Console tab.
  4. Navigate to the File Manager.
  5. Open the file named server.properties.
  6. Locate the following line:
 online-mode=true
  1. Change it to: 
    online-mode=false
  2. Save the file.
  3. Start your server again.
Your server is now in offline mode. Players with unofficial clients will be able to connect.
Running a Minecraft server in offline mode comes with serious risks:

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Account Spoofing

Anyone can join using any username, including operator or admin names. This can result in:
  • Stolen permissions
  • Server griefing
  • Bypassing bans and moderation tools

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Piracy

Allowing cracked clients supports software piracy. This violates Mojang’s End User License Agreement (EULA) and Microsoft’s Terms of Service.

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Unsupported Configuration

qwilo.tech does not guarantee protection, plugin compatibility, or technical support for servers running in offline mode.

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How to Secure an Offline Mode Server (If Used)

If you still choose to run offline mode (e.g., for private LAN use), follow these best practices:
  • Install an authentication plugin such as AuthMe Reloaded.
  • Disable command access for non-logged-in users.
  • Prevent players from using operator or admin usernames unless verified.
  • Use IP whitelisting or VPN restrictions to limit access.

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Better Alternative: Whitelist Mode

If your goal is to restrict access to friends or a private group, consider whitelisting instead:
  1. Keep online-mode=true
  2. Set white-list=true in server.properties
  3. Add usernames to the whitelist using the Console:
whitelist add Username
This maintains security while still limiting access.

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Final Notes

Offline mode should only be used for local development, personal LAN play, or non-public testing environments. Public cracked servers introduce security risks, support piracy, and violate the terms under which Minecraft is licensed. qwilo.tech encourages server owners to use secure, compliant configurations and support legitimate gameplay.