How to Host a Minecraft LAN Server: A Guide for Devs

Are you a Dev looking to set up a Minecraft LAN server for you and your friends to play on? Look no further! This guide will take you step-by-step through the process of hosting a LAN server from start to finish. Let’s dive in!

1. Choose a Version of Minecraft

The first step in hosting a Minecraft LAN server is choosing which version of Minecraft to use. Are you looking to play the latest version of Minecraft, or are you looking to play an older version? If you’re playing with friends, make sure everyone is on the same version to avoid any compatibility issues.

Additionally, you’ll need to decide whether you want to use the Minecraft Java Edition or the Minecraft Bedrock Edition. The Java Edition is for PC only, while Bedrock is available on PC, Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices.

Once you’ve decided on a version, it’s time to move on to the next step.

2. Download and Install Minecraft

Before you can host a LAN server, you’ll need to download and install Minecraft on your computer. You can purchase the game from the Minecraft website or through a digital distribution platform like Steam.

After you’ve purchased the game, follow the instructions to download and install it on your computer. Once it’s installed, you’re one step closer to hosting your own LAN server!

3. Configure Your Router

Configuring your router is one of the most important steps in setting up a LAN server. If you don’t do this correctly, your server won’t be accessible to anyone outside of your local network.

To configure your router, you’ll need to log into the administration panel. This can usually be done by typing your router’s IP address into your web browser. From there, you’ll need to find the port forwarding settings and forward port 25565 to your computer’s local IP address.

Once you’ve done this, your router is ready to host a Minecraft LAN server!

4. Set Up a Static IP Address

In order to host a LAN server, you’ll need to set up a static IP address on your computer. This will ensure that your computer always has the same IP address, making it easier for other players to connect to your server.

Instructions for setting up a static IP address vary depending on your operating system. A quick Google search should yield plenty of resources for your specific OS.

5. Download a Server Software

Before you can host a Minecraft LAN server, you’ll need to download a server software. There are several server software options available, including Spigot, Bukkit, and Vanilla.

Each software has its own pros and cons, so be sure to do some research before choosing one. Once you’ve chosen a software, follow the instructions to download and install it on your computer.

6. Configure the Server Software

After you’ve downloaded and installed the server software, you’ll need to configure it to your liking. This includes setting up permissions, adding plugins, and adjusting server settings.

Again, instructions for configuring the server software vary depending on which software you’ve chosen. Most software comes with a default configuration file that you can modify as needed.

7. Start the Server

Once your server software is configured, it’s time to start the server! Open up the software and click the “Start Server” button. If everything is set up correctly, the server should start running and you’ll see a console with lots of information about what’s happening.

8. Test the Server

Before inviting your friends to play, it’s a good idea to test the server to make sure everything is working properly. Launch Minecraft on your computer and try to connect to the server using the IP address of your computer (which should be the same as the static IP address you set up earlier).

If you’re able to connect to the server without any issues, congratulations! Your Minecraft LAN server is up and running.

FAQ

Conclusion

Hosting a Minecraft LAN server may seem intimidating at first, but with a little bit of patience and perseverance, anyone can do it! Follow the steps outlined in this guide and you’ll be playing Minecraft with your friends in no time. Good luck!