Maximizing Multiplayer Fun: Locating LAN Servers in Minecraft
6 December, 2022
Playing Minecraft with friends is always a delightful experience, and one of the most convenient ways to do so is by setting up a local area network (LAN) server. With LAN servers, you can gather your friends in the same physical location and enjoy the game together without the need for an internet connection. However, finding and connecting to a LAN server in Minecraft may sometimes prove to be a challenge. In this article, we will guide you through the process of locating LAN servers, ensuring that you can maximize your multiplayer fun.
Setting Up the LAN Server
To begin, you need to set up a LAN server. Open Minecraft on the computer that will act as the server, and create a new world or load an existing one. Once inside the game, open the in-game menu and select "Open to LAN." You will be presented with various options to customize your server, such as enabling cheats, choosing the game mode, and adjusting other settings. Once you're ready, click on the "Start LAN World" button.
Configuring Firewall and Network Settings
Before others can connect to your LAN server, you need to ensure that your computer's firewall and network settings allow incoming connections. Minecraft uses port 25565 by default for LAN servers. Open your computer's firewall settings and create a rule to allow incoming connections on this port. Additionally, ensure that all devices participating in the LAN are connected to the same network or subnet.
Finding the LAN Server
Once the LAN server is up and running, other players on the same network can join the game. On their Minecraft launcher, they should click on the "Multiplayer" button and wait for the server list to populate. In most cases, the LAN server should appear automatically in the list with the name of the world you created or the name of the computer hosting the server. The server listing may take a moment to appear, so be patient while it populates.
Troubleshooting Connection Issues
If the LAN server does not appear in the server list, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take. First, ensure that all devices are connected to the same network or subnet. Check that the firewall settings on the server computer allow incoming connections on port 25565. It's also worth verifying that the LAN server is running and not paused or closed accidentally. Restarting the Minecraft game on both the server computer and the client computers can often resolve connectivity issues.
Direct Connect
If the LAN server still does not appear in the server list, players can use the "Direct Connect" option. To do this, players should obtain the local IP address of the computer hosting the LAN server. On the server computer, open the command prompt or terminal and type "ipconfig" (Windows) or "ifconfig" (Mac/Linux). Look for the IPv4 address under the network adapter connected to the LAN. Players can then enter this IP address along with the port number (e.g., "192.168.1.100:25565") in the "Direct Connect" field on the Minecraft launcher.
LAN Server Mods
If you want to enhance your LAN server experience further, you can explore various mods designed specifically for multiplayer gameplay. Mods like LANParty allow you to customize and manage LAN servers more efficiently, providing additional features and options for hosting LAN parties and organizing gameplay sessions.
By following these steps and troubleshooting any connectivity issues, you can easily locate LAN servers in Minecraft and maximize your multiplayer fun. Gather your friends, create amazing worlds, and embark on adventures together in the enchanting world of Minecraft.
