Terms of Service

Last updated: August 28, 2026

By applying for or using a JohnHost server, you are agreeing to these terms. They are written to be readable and cover the important points plainly.

1. The service

JohnHost provides free Minecraft server hosting on a best-effort basis. Each server includes 1 port, free DDoS protection, and free daily backups, on hardware described on the form. Node assignment depends on availability at the time of your application.

2. It's free, and it stays that way for you

There is no charge for using JohnHost. If the service model ever changes in the future, existing active users will be notified directly and given advance notice before anything is affected — you won't wake up to a surprise bill.

3. No uptime guarantee

This is a free service run on real but limited hardware. While nodes are kept as stable and available as possible, there is no service-level agreement, no guaranteed uptime percentage, and no compensation for downtime. Backups exist specifically to reduce the risk of losing your work if something does go wrong.

4. Acceptable use

Using a JohnHost server means agreeing to the Rules, which include (but are not limited to):

• Staying within the 1-port limit per server.
• No attacking other players, servers, or JohnHost infrastructure.
• No illegal content, malware, or activity of any kind.
• No reselling or sub-leasing your server access.
• Reasonable, good-faith use of shared node resources and backup storage.

5. Suspension and termination

Servers that violate the rules or these terms may receive a warning, a temporary suspension, or immediate termination depending on severity — illegal activity or attacks on others result in immediate action without a warning. Servers that sit inactive for an extended period may also be reclaimed to free the slot for someone on the waitlist; you will be reached out to first when that is realistic.

6. Your content

You retain ownership of your world files, configurations, and anything else you upload to your server. JohnHost only accesses that content when necessary for support, troubleshooting, backups, or investigating a suspected rules violation.

7. Limitation of liability

JohnHost is provided "as is," free of charge, without warranties of any kind. To the fullest extent allowed by law, JohnHost and its operator are not liable for data loss, downtime, or damages arising from use of the service — this is a hobby-scale free host, not a commercial provider with contractual guarantees. Daily backups are provided to reduce this risk but are not a guarantee against loss.

8. Changes to the service or these terms

Hardware, node availability, and these terms may change over time as JohnHost grows. Meaningful changes will be reflected on this page with an updated date, and significant changes affecting active users will be communicated directly where possible.

9. Governing terms

These terms are intended to be read plainly and in good faith. If any part is found unenforceable, the rest still applies.

10. Contact

Questions about these terms can be sent through the contact info provided after you submit an application.