Minecraft LAN Servers: How to Set Up Local Multiplayer

20th Jun, 2022

Minecraft is a game that thrives on multiplayer experiences, and setting up a LAN (Local Area Network) server allows you to enjoy the game with friends and family in the same physical location. A LAN server enables seamless and low-latency multiplayer gameplay, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or when an internet connection is not available. In this article, we will guide you through the process of setting up a Minecraft LAN server to enjoy local multiplayer adventures.

Step 1: Ensure All Devices are Connected to the Same Network

To set up a LAN server, all devices participating in the multiplayer session must be connected to the same local network. This can be achieved by connecting devices to the same Wi-Fi network or using an Ethernet cable to create a wired network connection.

Step 2: Configure Network Settings

Ensure that the network settings on each device are configured properly. Disable any firewall or security settings that may block the connection between devices. Consult your device's documentation or internet settings to make any necessary adjustments.

Step 3: Launch Minecraft and Create a New World

Launch Minecraft on the device that will serve as the host for the LAN server. Once in the main menu, select "Singleplayer" and create a new world. Customize the world settings according to your preferences, such as the game mode, difficulty, and world type.

Step 4: Open the World to LAN

Once the world is created, pause the game and select "Open to LAN" from the options. A new screen will appear, allowing you to customize the LAN server settings. You can choose to enable or disable cheats, select the game mode, and adjust other parameters. After making your desired selections, click on the "Start LAN World" button.

Step 5: Join the LAN Server

On the other devices connected to the same network, launch Minecraft and navigate to the multiplayer section of the main menu. The LAN server should appear in the server list with the host's username and the name of the world. Simply select the LAN server and click on the "Join Server" button to connect.

Step 6: Enjoy Local Multiplayer

Once connected, all players can enjoy the Minecraft world together in real-time. Collaborate on building projects, explore the generated terrain, engage in friendly competition, or embark on exciting adventures within the LAN server.

Additional Tips:

• Make sure that the host device has sufficient system resources to handle the multiplayer session without lag or performance issues.
• Consider setting up a dedicated device as the LAN server host to ensure optimal performance.
• Communicate with other players on the LAN to coordinate gameplay and activities within the Minecraft world.
• Experiment with different world types, game modes, and customizations to tailor the multiplayer experience to your liking.
• Be mindful of the network limitations of your local setup, as performance may vary depending on the number of players and the capabilities of the devices involved.

Setting up a Minecraft LAN server allows you to experience the game's multiplayer aspect with friends and family in the same physical space. Whether it's building together, embarking on adventures, or engaging in friendly competition, the LAN server provides a convenient and low-latency environment for local multiplayer fun. So gather your fellow Minecraft enthusiasts, follow the steps outlined in this article, and immerse yourselves in the exciting world of Minecraft LAN multiplayer.