How to Play Minecraft Java Multiplayer with Friends

Minecraft is one of those games that is best enjoyed with friends. However, if it’s your first time trying out multiplayer in Minecraft Java edition, know that there are quite a few steps involved. Before you get started, ensure that the player’s game version is the same as the server version when playing on the server. If you have to change the game version, check out the official steps here.

How to Play Multiplayer in Minecraft Java

Joining an Online Public Server:

This is the easiest option, especially if you just want to jump in and play with a large group of people. Public servers offer a variety of experiences, from vanilla Minecraft survival to modded servers with custom features.

• To join, find a public server that interests you. You can head over to findmcserver.com. This is the official Minecraft server list, on which Mojang has collaborated with GamerSafer. You will find a lot of different ways of playing Minecraft—there’s a server where you can play lots of mini-games, and there’s one with a Battle Royale game mode, etc.
• Once, you’ve picked your favorite, launch Minecraft Java Edition.
• Click on “Multiplayer” in the main menu.
• Click “Add Server.”
• Enter the server’s IP address in the “Server Address” field. You can find this information on the server’s website or listing.
• Click “Done” and then double-click on the server name in the list to join.

Also Read | How to Manually Update Minecraft

Playing on a Local Area Network (LAN):

This option allows you and your friends on the same Wi-Fi network to play together in a world you host on your computer.

• Make sure you and your friends are on the same Wi-Fi network.
• Choose a host computer that can run Minecraft smoothly while also running a server for other players. The PC should be capable of doing this.
• Launch Minecraft Java Edition and select “Singleplayer.”
• Create a new world or load up an existing one.
• Press “Esc” to open the pause menu and click “Open to LAN.”
• Choose the game mode and settings you want for your friends (e.g., Survival, Creative).
• Click “Start LAN World.” A message will appear stating a local game is hosted.
• On your friends’ computers, launch Minecraft Java Edition, select “Multiplayer“ and their world should appear in the server list. They can then click on it to join.

Using a Third-party Server Hosting Service:

This option gives you more control over the server environment, allowing you to customize settings and potentially use mods. However, it requires purchasing a server plan from a hosting provider.

• Choose a Minecraft server hosting service.
• Purchase a server plan that meets your needs (number of players, RAM, etc.).
• Follow the instructions provided by the hosting service to set up your server. This will involve downloading server software and configuring it with your desired settings.
• Once your server is set up, you and your friends can connect to it using the server’s IP address in the “Multiplayer” menu of Minecraft Java Edition.

These were all the available methods as of now. Find the way that suits you best and have fun playing Minecraft with friends!