If you’ve ever tried to host a Minecraft game for your friends and ended up frustrated with lag, server crashes, or mod incompatibility—you’re not alone. Minecraft is one of the most popular multiplayer games in the world, but running your own server takes more than just clicking “Create World.”
That’s where Minecraft server hosting providers come in. These platforms let you run stable, secure, and high-performance servers with support for mods, plugins, and multiplayer teams—without needing to know advanced networking or server setup.
In this guide, you’ll discover the 8 best Minecraft server hosting services in 2025. We’ve tested them for speed, uptime, customer support, and mod compatibility. Whether you’re starting a survival world with friends or launching a modded adventure server for 100+ players, you’ll find the perfect host here.
Best Minecraft Server Hosting Plans in 2025
To help you compare all the top Minecraft hosting providers at a glance, here’s a side-by-side breakdown based on features, pricing, mod support, and performance.
| Hosting Provider | Starting Price | RAM | Mod Support | Dedicated IP | Free Backups | DDoS Protection | Global Locations |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hostinger | $4.49/mo | 4–32 GB | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | ✅ |
| ScalaCube | $2/mo | 768MB–32 GB | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | ✅ |
| Apex Hosting | $5.99/mo | 2–16 GB | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | ✅ |
| Nodecraft | $4.89/mo | 2–6 GB | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | ✅ |
| MC Pro Hosting | $5.99/mo | 2–32 GB | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | ✅ |
| Shockbyte | $2.79/mo | 1–16 GB | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | ✅ |
| Bisect Hosting | $2.99/mo | 1–48 GB | Yes | On Premium | Yes | Yes | ✅ |
| GG Servers | $3/mo | 1–3 GB | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | ✅ |
Tip: If you’re running a large public server or modpack-heavy world, prioritize higher RAM, DDoS protection, and mod support. For casual private games, a low-cost plan with 2–4 GB RAM is sufficient.
What Is Minecraft Server Hosting and Why Do You Need It?
Minecraft server hosting refers to a remote server setup that lets you run a multiplayer world of Minecraft 24/7—accessible from anywhere by anyone you allow. Instead of using your home computer (which has limited power and bandwidth), you use a cloud-based hosting company that gives you more resources, uptime, and control.
Difference Between Playing Locally vs. Hosting a Server
When you play Minecraft locally, your world is saved on your computer. It runs only when you’re online and is limited by your device’s power and internet. You also have to open ports or use third-party tools like Hamachi for multiplayer, which often leads to lag, crashes, or security issues.
With a Minecraft hosting provider, you get:
- A dedicated environment optimized for Minecraft
- Ability to run 24/7 servers, even if your PC is off
- Access to a control panel to manage mods, plugins, and backups
- Global server locations for low ping gameplay
Who Should Invest in Minecraft Server Hosting?
Minecraft server hosting is ideal for:
- Casual players who want a stable server for friends
- Content creators and YouTubers managing fan-based servers
- Schools or communities creating educational Minecraft worlds
- Modpack lovers who need extra RAM and SSD storage
- Gaming clans that want voice + game hosting under one roof
If any of these sound like you, a Minecraft host is well worth the investment.
Minimum Requirements for Running a Minecraft Server Smoothly
Before choosing a hosting provider, it’s important to understand the technical requirements of running a Minecraft server. Not all servers are created equal—and underpowered servers often lead to lag, timeouts, or crashing during peak usage.
Vanilla vs Modded Minecraft Server Requirements
For Vanilla Minecraft (no mods or plugins), here’s what you need for smooth gameplay:
- 1 GB RAM: For up to 5 players
- 1 CPU core: Basic world generation and game logic
- SSD storage: Faster chunk loading and autosaves
- Java 17+ environment
For Modded Minecraft (Forge, Fabric, or heavy modpacks):
- 4 to 8 GB RAM minimum: Mods increase resource usage
- 2+ CPU cores: For mod loaders and world events
- 30+ GB SSD storage: To handle mod assets and plugin data
Recommended RAM, CPU, and Storage Configurations
Here’s a quick reference:
| Type of Server | RAM | CPU Cores | Storage | Player Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vanilla (Basic) | 1–2 GB | 1 Core | 10 GB SSD | Up to 10 |
| Vanilla (With Plugins) | 2–4 GB | 2 Cores | 20 GB SSD | 10–25 |
| Modded (Lite) | 4 GB | 2 Cores | 30 GB SSD | 10–20 |
| Modded (Heavy) | 6–8 GB | 3–4 Cores | 50+ GB SSD | 30+ |
It’s always better to go a bit higher than the minimum to avoid lag spikes when multiple players are online or during heavy world events (like TNT explosions or Redstone chains).
How to Choose the Right Minecraft Hosting Provider in 2025
Not all Minecraft hosting providers are built the same. Some focus on affordability, others on performance or ease of use. Choosing the wrong host can leave you stuck with lag, limited mod support, or poor customer service.
Here are the key things to consider before you buy.
Key Features to Look For (Uptime, Mod Support, DDoS Protection)
To get the best experience, prioritize these hosting features:
- Uptime Guarantee (99.9% or higher) – You want your server live 24/7. Anything less than 99.9% uptime can result in frequent disconnects.
- Mod & Plugin Compatibility – If you’re planning to use Forge, Fabric, Spigot, or Bukkit plugins, make sure your host supports them out of the box.
- DDoS Protection – Prevents malicious attacks that can shut down your server. Must-have for public servers.
- SSD or NVMe Storage – Faster data access reduces lag, especially when loading chunks or saving progress.
- Instant Setup – Choose a host that activates your server within minutes, not hours.
- Dedicated IP Address – Easier for friends and players to connect without a long port number.
Server Location and Ping Optimization
Server proximity = smoother gameplay.
Always pick a host with data centers near your player base. If your friends are in India, a server in Singapore or Mumbai is better than one in Europe or the U.S. Lower ping means faster communication between your game and the server.
Pro tip: Some providers like Apex and Shockbyte have 10+ global data centers. Others like GG Servers let you choose the exact region before checkout.
Customization, Control Panel, and FTP Access
Power users will want full access to:
- Custom JAR support – Install your own Minecraft version or mod loader
- FTP access – Upload custom worlds, resource packs, or backups
- Console access – Run server commands or monitor logs
- Multicraft or Game Panel – A beginner-friendly UI to manage the server without coding
Some hosts also let you manage multiple Minecraft instances under one account, which is great if you’re running different game modes or modpacks.
Our Testing Process: How We Ranked These Minecraft Server Hosts
We didn’t just rely on specs listed on websites. We created actual Minecraft servers with each host, ran performance benchmarks, installed mods, and simulated real-world multiplayer gameplay.
Here’s how we ranked and reviewed them:
Performance Benchmarks and Mod Load Tests
We ran performance tests using:
- Vanilla Minecraft with 10 players building, fighting mobs, and traveling fast
- Modded servers (Forge + 30+ mods) with intensive gameplay
- TPS (Ticks Per Second) and CPU/RAM usage monitoring during peak load
- Measured average latency, chunk load times, and crash frequency
Shockbyte, Hostinger, and Apex Hosting scored the highest in stable mod performance and fast world loading.
Customer Support Experience
We evaluated support based on:
- Live chat response time
- Depth of answers (vs. canned replies)
- Ticket system speed for technical questions
- Self-service documentation quality
MC Pro Hosting and Apex excelled in live chat quality. Hostinger had a well-organized knowledge base but slower live support.
Real User Feedback and Reddit Recommendations
We cross-checked our findings with feedback from:
- Reddit threads on r/Minecraft and r/admincraft
- Trustpilot and G2 reviews
- Discord communities of players and mod developers
Hosts like ScalaCube and Bisect Hosting got high marks from players hosting large modpacks and community events.
Top 8 Best Minecraft Server Hosting Providers for 2025 (Tested & Reviewed)
Based on performance, ease of use, price-to-feature value, and mod support, here are the best Minecraft hosting services you should consider in 2025.
1. Hostinger – Best for Beginners and Budget-Friendly Setup
Best for: Casual players, small survival servers, beginner-friendly setup
Starting Price: $4.49/month
Server Locations: North America, Europe, Asia
Hostinger stands out as the most value-packed option for new Minecraft players. With its intuitive Game Panel, fast SSDs, and full root access, it strikes the perfect balance between affordability and control.
You can launch a server in under 10 minutes, even with zero technical experience.
Key Features:
- Full root access and dedicated IP address
- Free automatic backups & DDoS protection
- 99.99% uptime guarantee with 24/7 monitoring
- Game Panel UI for easy server management
- Supports Minecraft Java & Bedrock Editions
- PCI-DSS compliant for secure payments
Performance Insights:
We tested Hostinger’s Game Panel 2 plan (8 GB RAM) with 20 players running a modpack. The average TPS stayed stable even during heavy world generation, and chunk loading was instant with NVMe SSDs.
Why We Recommend It:
If you’re hosting your first Minecraft server, Hostinger is the safest bet. It’s affordable, fast, and easy to manage. Plus, you don’t need to tinker with complicated server settings—just select a version, hit install, and start playing.
Pricing Plans:
| Plan | RAM | vCPU | Price/Month |
|---|---|---|---|
| Game Panel 1 | 4 GB | 1 | $4.49 |
| Game Panel 2 | 8 GB | 2 | $6.29 |
| Game Panel 4 | 16 GB | 4 | $9.44 |
| Game Panel 8 | 32 GB | 8 | $17.99 |
All plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. ScalaCube – Best Free Minecraft Hosting with Mod Support
Best for: Modded Minecraft, large worlds, unlimited player slots
Starting Price: $2/month
Server Locations: US, UK, Germany, France, Singapore
ScalaCube is ideal for players who love modding and want full control over their Minecraft environment. You get support for Forge, Spigot, and Bukkit, plus pre-configured modpack options and a one-click installer.
Unlike most hosts, ScalaCube also offers a free server plan—perfect for testing before you buy.
Key Features:
- Unlimited player slots on paid plans
- Full FTP, SSH, and LAMP stack access
- Instant server setup with 1000+ modpack installers
- 24/7 ticket support
- Free subdomain for your server
Performance Insights:
We tested a 3 GB plan running All The Mods 6 with 12 players. The server held strong with no lag during combat or terrain generation. SSD speeds helped with smooth mod performance.
Why We Recommend It:
If you want to host a heavily modded Minecraft world or manage multiple plugins, ScalaCube gives you maximum flexibility. It’s more technical than Hostinger, but power users will appreciate the extra control.
Pricing Plans:
| Plan | RAM | Storage | Price/Month |
|---|---|---|---|
| Proxy 768M | 768 MB | 10 GB SSD | $2 |
| Minecraft 1.5G | 1.5 GB | 15 GB SSD | $5 |
| Minecraft 3G | 3 GB | 30 GB SSD | $10 |
| Minecraft 16G | 16 GB | 160 GB SSD | $48 |
| Minecraft 32G | 32 GB | 320 GB SSD | $96 |
There’s also a Free Plan with 6 GB RAM, but it’s only hosted in one region and has limited features.
3. Apex Hosting – Best for Modpacks and Low Latency Gameplay
Best for: Modded multiplayer servers, global access, one-click modpacks
Starting Price: $5.99/month (first month discount)
Server Locations: 18+ worldwide, including US, UK, India, Singapore, Germany
Apex Hosting is a powerhouse for anyone serious about modded Minecraft. It comes preloaded with over 200+ one-click modpack installers, supports both Java and Bedrock editions, and has some of the fastest setup times we’ve tested.
Whether you’re managing a public server or playing with friends across continents, Apex Hosting minimizes lag thanks to its wide global server network.
Key Features:
- One-click installers for 200+ modpacks (FTB, Pixelmon, RLcraft, etc.)
- Java & Bedrock support
- Free server migration
- Full FTP and MySQL database access
- 24/7 live chat + ticket support
- Custom subdomain
Performance Insights:
During our test with a 6 GB RAM plan running RLcraft and 20 players, Apex showed near-zero lag and smooth teleportation/loading even with demanding mods. Server setup was done in less than 3 minutes.
Why We Recommend It:
If your server is heavily modded and you want plug-and-play support, Apex is a fantastic choice. Its ease of use and premium data centers justify the slightly higher price.
Pricing Plans:
| Plan | RAM | First Month | Regular Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic | 2 GB | $5.99 | $7.99/month |
| Standard | 4 GB | $10.49 | $14.99/month |
| Advanced | 6 GB | $15.74 | $22.49/month |
| Premium | 8 GB | $19.59 | $27.99/month |
| EX Series | 16 GB (Dedicated) | – | $71.99/month |
All plans include 7-day money-back guarantee.
4. Nodecraft – Best for Hosting Multiple Games (Not Just Minecraft)
Best for: Gamers who want to host multiple games like Rust, Valheim, and Terraria alongside Minecraft
Starting Price: $4.89/month
Server Locations: 13+ global locations including North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific
Nodecraft is perfect for multi-game players. It supports over 30 popular games with instant switching, making it the most flexible host on this list. You can host a Minecraft world today, then switch to V Rising or ARK tomorrow—all on the same plan.
Key Features:
- Swap between games instantly without reinstalling
- Unlimited player slots
- SSD-powered servers with real-time console
- Full-featured control panel with Save & Swap
- Free subdomain & DDoS protection
- Automatic cloud backups
Performance Insights:
We tested the Nano plan with a Vanilla Minecraft world and 10 players. The response times were excellent, and save-switching to another game took less than 20 seconds. Uptime remained stable at 99.99%.
Why We Recommend It:
If you want one hosting plan for multiple titles, Nodecraft is unmatched. It’s ideal for streamers or gamers with diverse gaming communities who play more than just Minecraft.
Pricing Plans:
| Plan | RAM | SSD Storage | Price/Month |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nano | 2 GB | 10 GB | $4.89 |
| Keelo | 4 GB | 20 GB | $9.79 |
| Megs | 6 GB | 30 GB | $19.59 |
Every plan includes unlimited player slots, Save & Swap game support, and automatic backups.
5. MC Pro Hosting – Best Premium Support and Reliability
Best for: Players prioritizing stability, uptime, and human support
Starting Price: $5.99/month
Server Locations: Over 20 global locations across North America, Europe, and Asia
MC Pro Hosting has been in the game since 2011 and hosts over 700,000 Minecraft servers globally. It’s known for exceptional customer support, a rock-solid 99.99% uptime, and a clean, customizable control panel that works well for both beginners and experienced server owners.
Key Features:
- Supports all Minecraft versions (Java & Bedrock)
- Custom control panel with advanced monitoring
- Daily off-site backups and DDoS protection
- FTP and MySQL database access
- Instant server setup with 1-click mod installers
- Live chat + ticket support 24/7
Performance Insights:
We ran a 4 GB RAM server with plugins and about 15 active users. Performance was consistent, with minimal lag even during world events like TNT explosions and mob farms. Backups were stored offsite and easy to restore.
Why We Recommend It:
If support is your #1 priority, MC Pro Hosting is unbeatable. Their 24/7 live chat resolves most issues in under 5 minutes, and you get full flexibility with your server files and settings.
Pricing Plans:
Starts from $5.99/month. Pricing scales based on RAM and slot requirements with both Java and Bedrock options.
No free plan, but all packages include a 7-day refund policy.
6. Shockbyte – Best for High Performance and Unlimited Player Slots
Best for: High-traffic public servers, advanced players, modded PvP worlds
Starting Price: $2.79/month
Server Locations: North America, Europe, Singapore, and Australia
Shockbyte is one of the most trusted names in Minecraft server hosting and for good reason. They specialize in Minecraft, offer unbeatable pricing for the performance, and all plans come with unlimited player slots—even the cheapest one.
If you’re hosting a public modded server, Shockbyte gives you the best balance of cost and raw power.
Key Features:
- Unlimited slots on all plans
- Full FTP and custom JAR support
- NVMe SSD storage and instant setup
- Free MySQL, DDoS protection, and automatic backups
- Java & Bedrock support
- Dedicated IP available
Performance Insights:
We tested the 6 GB “Redstone” plan with 25+ concurrent players on a modded PvP server (SMP-style). No lag even during intense PvP battles and teleport spam. TPS stayed at 20 throughout.
Why We Recommend It:
Shockbyte is a beast. For the price, no other host gives you this level of power and unlimited scalability. If you’re confident with Minecraft server settings and want zero restrictions, go with Shockbyte.
Pricing Plans:
| Plan | RAM | Player Slots | Price/Month |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dirt | 1 GB | Unlimited | $2.79 |
| Sand | 2 GB | Unlimited | $5.59 |
| Redstone | 6 GB | Unlimited | $16.79 |
| Obsidian | 9 GB | Unlimited | $22.19 |
| Titan | 16 GB | Unlimited | $44.79 |
Shockbyte also offers premium plans like Zeus and Spartan with high-core CPUs and faster SSDs. All come with a 72-hour refund policy.
7. Bisect Hosting – Best for Power Users and Modded Server Flexibility
Best for: Hosting large modpacks, multiple server types, experienced users
Starting Price: $2.99/month
Server Locations: 20+ locations including North America, Europe, Brazil, Singapore
Bisect Hosting offers a wide range of options for gamers who want maximum flexibility. Whether you’re launching a public modded server or experimenting with custom maps, Bisect gives you advanced file access, a large modpack library, and top-tier reliability.
What sets it apart is its massive 1,000+ one-click modpack installs, covering nearly every major Minecraft version and launcher.
Key Features:
- Supports all modloaders: Forge, Fabric, Spigot, Bukkit, etc.
- Hosting for 21+ games besides Minecraft
- Free DDoS protection, subdomain, and backups
- Instant server activation and scalable resources
- Online file manager with FTP & MySQL access
- Daily backups—even after cancellation (for up to 3 years)
Performance Insights:
We hosted a large modpack (FTB Revelation) on an 8 GB Premium plan. Server handled 20 concurrent players smoothly even during automated mob farm tests. Setup took under 5 minutes and didn’t require advanced configuration.
Why We Recommend It:
For advanced users who want flexibility, mod control, and long-term data protection, Bisect is a top-tier choice. Beginners might find the UI less intuitive, but the support team is quick to help.
Pricing Plans:
Bisect offers both Budget and Premium plans:
| Tier | RAM | Features | Price/Month |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget 1 GB | 1 GB | Basic Features | $2.99 |
| Premium 2 GB | 2 GB | Free dedicated IP, 20+ server locations | $7.99 |
| Premium 8 GB | 8 GB | Unlimited modpacks & backups | $23.99 |
Budget plans come with fewer locations and features. Premium plans include a dedicated IP, free backups, and more.
8. GG Servers – Best Affordable Option with Global Reach
Best for: Gamers seeking affordable pricing and fast setup
Starting Price: $3/month
Server Locations: 9 data centers worldwide including India, US, UK, and France
GG Servers is a budget-friendly Minecraft hosting provider with strong performance. It’s one of the few hosts that offers both standard and premium servers, giving players flexibility based on how much performance they need.
Their Premium plans are powered by 5 GHz CPUs and NVMe SSDs, which means faster chunk loading and minimal lag—even for complex modpacks.
Key Features:
- Free subdomain and MySQL database
- Instant server activation
- Unmetered SSD/NVMe storage
- DDoS protection included in all plans
- Easy-to-use Multicraft control panel
- Supports all Minecraft versions
Performance Insights:
We tested a 3 GB Premium server with 12 players using a Skyblock world. Performance was solid, with no major lag spikes even during Redstone automation or mob spawning.
Why We Recommend It:
GG Servers delivers excellent value for gamers on a tight budget who still want reliable uptime and access to global server locations. Their Premium tier is a hidden gem if you want 5 GHz power at a low cost.
Pricing Plans:
| Plan | RAM | Player Slots | Price/Month |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stone | 1 GB | 12 | $3 (Standard), $6 (Premium) |
| Coal | 2 GB | 24 | $6 (Standard), $12 (Premium) |
| Iron | 3 GB | 36 | $9 (Standard), $18 (Premium) |
All plans come with a 24-hour refund window, so you can test risk-free.
Which Minecraft Server Hosting Should You Pick? (Use Case Guide)
Not sure which host to go with? Here’s a quick breakdown based on your needs:
For Solo Players or Small Survival Teams
- ✅ Pick: Hostinger or GG Servers
- 🧠 Why: Low cost, easy setup, great for up to 10 players
For Modded Minecraft and Plugin Support
- ✅ Pick: Apex Hosting, Shockbyte, or ScalaCube
- 🧠 Why: Full modpack libraries, unlimited slots, high RAM options
For Large Multiplayer Communities
- ✅ Pick: Shockbyte (Titan Plan), Bisect Hosting (Premium Plans)
- 🧠 Why: High performance with scalability and DDoS protection
For Streamers or YouTubers Hosting Public Worlds
- ✅ Pick: Nodecraft or Apex Hosting
- 🧠 Why: Fast global servers + FTP access + reliable uptime
For Power Users and Custom Worlds
- ✅ Pick: Bisect Hosting or ScalaCube
- 🧠 Why: Full file access, mod loaders, and customizable slots
How to Set Up Your Minecraft Server (Step-by-Step for Beginners)
Don’t worry if you’ve never hosted a game server before. Most Minecraft server hosting providers make the process extremely beginner-friendly. Here’s a quick tutorial to get your server up and running in 10–15 minutes.
Step 1: Choose a Hosting Provider and Plan
Pick the provider that fits your needs (Hostinger for budget, Apex for mods, etc.). Select the right plan based on how many players you expect and whether you’ll use mods.
Example:
Hostinger Game Panel 2 (8 GB RAM) – great for modded Minecraft with 10–20 players.
Step 2: Complete the Purchase and Register Your Server
Once you sign up:
- You’ll get access to a dashboard (like Game Panel or Multicraft).
- The server setup is usually instant or takes 5–10 minutes max.
- You’ll receive your server IP, port, and login credentials by email.
Step 3: Install Minecraft Version or Modpack
From your control panel:
- Choose between Vanilla, Spigot, Forge, or Fabric
- Or use a 1-click modpack installer (FTB, Pixelmon, RLcraft, etc.)
- You can also upload your own custom
.jarfile or world via FTP
Most providers also offer Java and Bedrock support, so pick accordingly.
Step 4: Configure Settings and Whitelist Players
- Set your server name, game mode, difficulty, world seed, etc.
- Enable PvP, whitelist players, or change max slots
- Add mods/plugins using the “Mods” tab or FTP
Step 5: Share Server IP and Start Playing
- Copy your server IP and port
- Send it to your friends to join (or set a public whitelist if it’s open)
- Your Minecraft world is now live 24/7!
Most hosts also let you schedule automatic backups, switch games, and monitor RAM/CPU usage from the dashboard.
FAQs About Minecraft Server Hosting in 2025
Can I host a Minecraft server for free?
Yes, but with limitations. ScalaCube offers a basic free plan, but it has restricted features and fewer server locations. For stable, mod-friendly hosting, a paid plan is recommended.
What’s the best Minecraft server host for modded gameplay?
Apex Hosting, Shockbyte, and ScalaCube are the best for mods. They support hundreds of modpacks and custom .jar files with one-click setup.
Do I need a dedicated IP for Minecraft hosting?
No, but it’s helpful. A dedicated IP makes your server easier to join without a port number and is great for public servers. Hosts like Hostinger and Apex include it in their plans.
Which hosting providers support both Java and Bedrock editions?
Most top providers like Hostinger, Apex, and GG Servers support both editions. Always check plan details before buying.
How long does it take to set up a Minecraft server?
Usually 5–10 minutes. Most hosting services offer instant activation once you complete the payment.
Do Minecraft hosts offer backups?
Yes, all the top providers like Hostinger, Bisect, and Shockbyte offer automated backups either daily or on demand.
Final Thoughts: Which Minecraft Hosting Provider Is Right for You?
Choosing the best Minecraft server hosting provider in 2025 really comes down to your goals.
- Just starting out or playing with a few friends? Hostinger is the easiest and most affordable option.
- Want to dive into modded gameplay? Apex Hosting or Shockbyte will give you high performance and full mod support.
- Running a large public server or planning to host multiple games? Bisect Hosting and Nodecraft are built for power users and multi-game setups.
No matter which one you pick, the providers we’ve listed all offer great uptime, DDoS protection, and reliable customer support.
If you’re serious about lag-free Minecraft multiplayer—don’t host it on your home computer. A proper Minecraft server host makes all the difference in performance, security, and peace of mind.
Still unsure? Start with a monthly plan, test the gameplay, and upgrade as your world grows.