Quick Tips for Finding LAN Servers in Minecraft
2023-01-22
Minecraft, the popular sandbox game, offers an exciting multiplayer experience that allows players to connect with friends and family in LAN (Local Area Network) environments. LAN servers enable players on the same network to join together in shared Minecraft worlds, fostering collaboration and fun. However, finding and connecting to LAN servers can sometimes be challenging, especially for newcomers to the game. In this article, we will provide quick tips to help you easily locate and join LAN servers in Minecraft.
Ensure You're on the Same Network: To connect to a LAN server, all players must be connected to the same local network. Make sure all devices (computers, laptops, consoles, etc.) are connected to the same Wi-Fi network or physically connected through an Ethernet cable.
Host the LAN Server: One player on the network needs to host the LAN server. This player will open their Minecraft world to LAN by selecting the "Open to LAN" option in the game menu. Choose the desired game options, such as the game mode and whether to enable cheats, and click "Start LAN World" to begin hosting.
Find the Host's IP Address: The player hosting the LAN server needs to provide their IP address to other players who want to join. In Minecraft, the host can find their IP address by pressing the F3 key on their keyboard (Fn + F3 for some laptops). Look for the "IP" section, which will display the host's IP address in the format of numbers separated by dots.
Joining the LAN Server: Other players on the network can join the LAN server by selecting the "Multiplayer" option from the Minecraft main menu. Click on "Direct Connect" and enter the host's IP address in the provided field. Then, click "Join Server" to connect.
Troubleshooting Connection Issues: If you're unable to connect to the LAN server, try the following troubleshooting steps:
- Double-check that all devices are connected to the same network.
- Ensure that the host's computer or device is not blocking incoming connections through a firewall or security software.
- Restart Minecraft on both the host and client devices.
- Verify that the host's IP address is correctly entered in the "Direct Connect" field.
Alternative Methods: If connecting via IP address doesn't work, you can also try the following methods:
- Use the LAN scanning feature in third-party tools like "LAN World" or "LanScan" to automatically detect LAN servers.
- Enable the "Visible to LAN Players" option in the server settings of the host's Minecraft world. This makes the LAN server visible to other players without requiring them to enter an IP address.
Consider Using Minecraft Realms or Dedicated Servers: If you continue to experience difficulties with LAN connections, you might consider alternative multiplayer options such as Minecraft Realms or dedicated servers. These options provide more reliable connections and allow players to join even from different networks.
By following these quick tips, you can easily find and join LAN servers in Minecraft, creating memorable multiplayer experiences with your friends and family. Remember to ensure that all players are on the same network, correctly enter the host's IP address, and troubleshoot any connection issues that may arise. With LAN multiplayer, Minecraft becomes a collaborative adventure, where you can build, explore, and enjoy the game together in a shared world.