How to Play Minecraft With Friends
By PickaxeKit Editorial Team · Updated 2026-11-08
On the same Wi-Fi, use Open to LAN (Java) or a LAN world (Bedrock). In different homes, use a server you host, a paid Realm or a hosting service, or join through your friends list on Bedrock.
Pick the right way
| Situation | Best option | Edition |
|---|---|---|
| Same house, same Wi-Fi | Open to LAN / LAN world | Java and Bedrock |
| Different homes, playing now and then | Join a friend's world through your friends list | Bedrock |
| Different homes, a world that is always on | Realms (paid subscription from Mojang) | Java and Bedrock |
| Different homes, full control and mods | Your own server or a hosting service | Java and Bedrock |
Same Wi-Fi: Open to LAN (Java)
- Everyone must use the same Minecraft version.
- The host opens a world, presses Esc and clicks Open to LAN, then Start LAN World.
- Friends open Multiplayer. The world appears under LAN worlds after a few seconds.
- If it does not appear, check that everyone is on the same network and that the host's firewall allows Java (javaw.exe).
Same Wi-Fi: LAN on Bedrock
Make sure Visible to LAN Players is on in the world's multiplayer settings. Friends on the same network see the world in the Friends tab.
Different homes
- Bedrock: add each other as friends with your Microsoft accounts, then join from the Friends tab while the host is playing.
- Realms: a paid, always-on world hosted by Mojang. The simplest option if you do not want to manage a server.
- Your own server: free if you run it on your own computer, but friends need your public address and an open port. See how to make a Minecraft server.
- Hosting service: a company runs the server for you. Free plans usually have limits such as queues or shutting down when empty.
Tip: Whatever you choose, everyone needs the same version. Check the latest Minecraft version before you start.
Things to play together
Try a race with the Minecraft Bingo Generator: share one link and everyone gets the same card.