How do you enable cheats on a Minecraft Java server?

Who this is for: Server administrators and players who want to enable creative commands and administrative tools on their Minecraft Java servers.


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Method 1: Enable Cheats During World Creation

The easiest way is to enable cheats when you first create your server world. In your server.properties file, set allow-cheats=true before starting the server for the first time. This gives all players access to commands like /gamemode, /give, and /tp right from the start.

Method 2: Using Server Console Commands

If your server is already running, you can enable cheats through the server console. Type /op [playername] to give operator privileges to specific players. Operators can use most cheat commands even if the server wasn’t created with cheats enabled.

Essential Console Commands

  • /op [username] – Makes a player an operator
  • /deop [username] – Removes operator status
  • /whitelist add [username] – Adds player to whitelist
  • /difficulty [easy/normal/hard] – Changes server difficulty

Editing server.properties File

Navigate to your server folder and open server.properties in a text editor. Look for these key settings:

Setting Value Effect
enable-command-block true Allows command blocks to function
op-permission-level 4 Sets maximum operator permission level
allow-flight true Permits creative mode flying

Save the file and restart your server for changes to take effect.

Permission Levels Explained

Minecraft servers use four permission levels (1-4). Level 4 gives full access to all commands, while lower levels restrict certain functions. Most server owners set operators to level 4 for complete administrative control.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If commands aren’t working, check that you’re typing them correctly in the server console (without the forward slash) or in-game chat (with the forward slash). Make sure the server has fully restarted after editing configuration files.

For players wanting to explore creative building and command experimentation, our collection offers plenty of sandbox-style experiences to practice these skills.

TL;DR

Enable cheats by setting allow-cheats=true in server.properties or use /op [username] in console to give players operator privileges with command access.

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Joyst1ck

Gaming Writer & HTML5 Developer

Answering gaming questions—from Roblox and Minecraft to the latest indie hits. I write developer‑focused HTML5 articles and share practical tips on game design, monetisation, and scripting.

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