Minecraft can be played not only alone in single-player mode but also together with others. This is what makes the game so exciting, as you can build a world together with your friends, embark on adventures, and of course, enjoy the latest updates. But how does it actually work? If you want to play with others, you need to familiarize yourself with Minecraft servers. What they are and how you can use them, we will take a closer look at in this article. By the end, you should hopefully have no problems setting up your own Minecraft server and playing together with others.
What is a Minecraft Server?
The term server is broad and is often found in the IT world. It describes a place where certain data is stored and played back. Access is via the internet. This is how it works in Minecraft as well. A server in this case simply means that a world is hosted at a different location or provided from there, and you and other players can access it. This system has been implemented since before the initial release in 2010. Since then, multiplayer maps have become an integral part of Minecraft.
There is a fundamental difference between private servers and rented servers. You can also set up your own server, but it will only be online as long as you are. Rented servers, which make up the majority, are hosted externally and are usually accessible 24/7.
What are Realms?
Anyone researching Minecraft servers will likely come across the term “Realms.” These are servers provided directly by Mojang. Introduced in 2016, they offer an easy entry point but come with some limitations (e.g., no mods). However, for beginners, they are a simple and quick solution to start playing together without much effort.
Free vs. Paid Servers
Even though free servers are tempting, you should generally opt for a reputable and paid service for your Minecraft server. This way, you not only get a well-rounded server but also guaranteed security and maintenance. Additionally, performance is better if you want to play on an officially rented server. Your server and your Minecraft world are in safe hands!
How to Install a Minecraft Server
Let’s take a look at the process with us, which is incredibly easy and completed in just a few minutes. If you want to rent a Minecraft server but find the setup too complicated, we are happy to help you! The setup and updates can be more challenging for newcomers, so a helping hand might be necessary.
Guide to Renting a Minecraft Server:
Go to the Minecraft page to rent the right server and make your initial settings. This works for both Java and Bedrock.
There you can now set some parameters. Some parameters are always included, such as a 3D view of your server, a MySQL database, and an automatic backup system.
- Number of players/slots
- Duration
- Shared or dedicated IP address
- Server location
- RAM size
- Branding
Then pay the specified price and provide your payment method for later. Additionally, you will also be asked to create a customer account. When you later log in to 4Netplayers with your account, you can see an overview of all your servers and also make adjustments to the settings.
Once the purchase is complete, your server should go online immediately! You can find the login details in your account.
Note: Your rented server is not limited to Minecraft. You can switch the game as you wish.
Enter and Access the Server in the Game
Now the server is set up and you can start! It is important that you copy the correct name of your server, the IP address, and the port beforehand. You will need these details shortly.
Java Edition:
- Start the game on the version you want to play. This must match the version the server is running on.
- Click on “Multiplayer” in the main menu.
- You can either make a direct connection and start without much hassle or add the server to the list so you don’t have to enter it again later. This is especially useful for a dedicated IP address.
- Enter the relevant details and you’re good to go.
Bedrock Edition:
- Start Minecraft Bedrock / Minecraft for Windows.
- Then click on “Play”.
- At the top, you will see three tabs. Click on the last one that says “Servers”. Scroll down on the left side of the window and click on “Add Server”.
- Enter the previously saved details here as well. The server will then appear in the list and is ready to start!
Modpacks and Servers – Does it Work?
Yes, if you have chosen the right host for your server, they will also provide the option for mods. These must be directly hosted and installed on the server. You have a wide selection of mod packs available, but you can also search for them yourself and create your own Minecraft world. Mods for both Fabric and Forge are possible, just make sure they are compatible with each other. A good test is to first set up a single-player world with the mods and see if they work smoothly.
Emergency Solution: Enable Minecraft over LAN
If you and your friends are logged into the same network, you can even play together without much hassle and without a server! The good thing is that every single Minecraft world, even single-player, is considered its own server. But this only works over a network.
Log into your world that you want to share. Pause the game and click on “Open to LAN” in the menu. There you can set the game mode and commands and open the server. All players who are on the same internet network will now be able to join your world.
Conclusion – More Fun Together!
Anyone who wants to play Minecraft together with others should definitely get familiar with creating and installing servers. There are many different options, some are integrated directly into Minecraft, while for others you need a third-party provider. Either way, a server is absolutely worth it if you want to explore the colorful world of Minecraft together with others and create amazing structures.
