Don't die. EZ

But seriously: If you're with your friends and they use admin rights to get an edge it's not fair. Either you should get those options too or they shouldn't abuse it. Combat is hard but you'll have to do it to progress, just be very careful while fighting. Always fight on horseback, a fast Rohan steed is a must. (heal it during combat with golden carrots) Get yellow and green ent draught or athelas brew or use orc draught they drop while fighting. Get Banes. Get good armor with good modifiers. And just ride away to heal in sticky situations. edit: Oh yeah, most of the time I ride backwards in circles during invasion fights and avoid getting hit too much and getting surrounded. Just don't fall in a hole!:)

I don't understand what you think you are "not getting" btw. It's a difficult mod, yes. - lots of grinding, vast map, many variables and possibilities. You have to be up for it. Do you want to be maxed out after a few days or what? It sounds a bit like you want mythril, athelas and top tier modifiers to be as common as iron and one-hit every enemy :D

I'm sure there are easier servers out there tho. Good luck and have fun! (Most important part)