You need a application.yml file. Customize the server.port (usually 2333), set a strong server.password , and configure your lavalink.server.youtubePayload if necessary. Step 2: Choose a Deployment Method
Searching for does not have to end in disappointment. While most hosted solutions charge, the combination of Oracle Cloud’s always-free tier and a few command-line commands gives you a professional-grade audio node at zero cost.
server: port: 2333 address: 0.0.0.0 lavalink: server: password: "your_strong_password" sources: youtube: true soundcloud: true bufferDurationMs: 400
You can run Lavalink on your Windows, Mac, or Linux machine. This is technically free, but your computer must be on 24/7. Once you shut down or your internet flickers, the music stops. Lavalink Hosting Free
If you are hosting on a Linux VM, your Lavalink process will close the moment you disconnect from your SSH terminal. Use a process manager like or a systemd service to keep Lavalink running silently in the background and restart it automatically if it crashes. Using PM2:
Most "free" tiers from major cloud providers expire after 12 months or require you to upgrade after hitting low limits.
Higher latency and potential downtime since you're sharing resources with others. 2. Host on Free-Tier Cloud Providers You need a application
Very fast deployment, supports Docker templates for Lavalink.
Excellent for Asian-based bots. Supports YouTube plugins and Lavasrc.
While dedicated servers are best for massive bots, these platforms offer free tiers suitable for development, testing, or small-to-medium-sized bots. 1. Render.com While most hosted solutions charge, the combination of
Limited resources (RAM/CPU), potential for downtime, requires activity to keep the server. 4. Self-Hosting on Old Hardware
The Lavalink community is active and supportive, with several resources dedicated to maintaining free node availability.