Creating Minecraft LAN Servers: A Step-by-Step Guide

05/09/2023

Minecraft, the iconic sandbox game, is known for its versatility and the ability to enjoy adventures with friends. One of the most accessible ways to play together is by setting up a Minecraft LAN (Local Area Network) server. LAN servers allow you and your friends to connect to the same network and embark on shared Minecraft adventures without the need for an internet connection. In this step-by-step guide, we'll walk you through the process of creating Minecraft LAN servers for local multiplayer fun.

Step 1: Ensure You're on the Same Network

Before setting up a LAN server, ensure that all players who want to join are connected to the same local network. This can be a home Wi-Fi network, a wired Ethernet connection, or a network created by a router or switch.

Step 2: Open Minecraft and Create a World

Launch Minecraft on the computer that will act as the server. You can use the Java Edition or the Bedrock Edition (often referred to as the "Windows 10 Edition").

1. For Java Edition:

   • Click on "Singleplayer" in the main menu.
   • Create a new world or choose an existing one. Remember the world name.

2. For Bedrock Edition (Windows 10):

   • Click on "Play" in the main menu.
   • Create a new world or choose an existing one. Note the world name.

Step 3: Start a LAN World

1. For Java Edition:

   • While in your world, press the "Escape" key (or "E" key by default) to open the in-game menu.
   • Click on "Open to LAN."
   • Configure settings such as game mode and cheats (if desired), then click "Start LAN World."

2. For Bedrock Edition (Windows 10):

   • While in your world, press the "Pause" key or press "Esc" to open the in-game menu.
   • Click on "Open to LAN."
   • Configure settings such as game mode and cheats (if desired), then click "Start LAN World."

Step 4: Join the LAN World

Players who want to join the LAN server need to follow these steps:

1. For Java Edition:

   • Open Minecraft on their computer.
   • Click on "Multiplayer" in the main menu.
   • A LAN server with the name of the host's world should appear in the server list. Click on it to join.

2. For Bedrock Edition (Windows 10):

   • Open Minecraft on their Windows 10 computer.
   • Click on "Friends" or "Friends & Clubs" in the main menu.
   • The LAN server should appear in the Friends list. Click on it to join.

Step 5: Enjoy Multiplayer Fun

Once all players have successfully joined the LAN server, you can start playing together in the same world. You can explore, build, mine, and survive together just as you would on an online multiplayer server.

Additional Tips:

• Make sure the host computer (the one running the LAN server) has sufficient hardware resources to handle multiple players in the world.
• Players may experience lag if their connection to the LAN server is slow or if the host's computer is struggling to handle the game.
• Remember to save your progress in the LAN world, as it won't be available once you exit the game.

Creating Minecraft LAN servers is a fantastic way to enjoy multiplayer experiences with friends and family in a local setting. It's a great option for gatherings, parties, or simply playing together within the comfort of your home network. So, gather your friends, start your LAN server, and embark on exciting Minecraft adventures together!