How to set up a private server for me and my friend?

I have a friend that also plays Minecraft. She lives a fair bit away from me and I am wondering how to start a private server where ONLY she can join. If any more information is needed please comment and ask. I'm all ears.

Solution 1:

Step 1

First of all, you need to set up a normal Minecraft server. A good guide on this can be found here.
_{For troubleshooting, please refer to an already existing thread: here.}

In addtion to both @jofri and @RimaNari, you could also choose another way of setting up a server like Minecraft Realms.

Step 2

Now, assuming that this was no problem for you we can go on and make sure only you and your friend can access this server.

1. Make sure you are an OP and/or have access to the console.
2. Run the command: /whitelist on
3. For each player you want to have access to the server run the command:
   /whitelist add [playername]
4. After all players are added, run the following command: /whitelist reload

Now only players whom are white listed on your server will be able to connect!

<sub>Sources:
- http://minecraft.gamepedia.com/Tutorials/Setting_up_a_server
- http://minecraft.gamepedia.com/Commands</sub>

Solution 2:

You also can checkout Minecraft Realms. It cost 10 € per month and is a Service by Mojang