How to Play Minecraft Java with Friends on Different WiFi?
Playing Minecraft with friends is one of the best parts of the game, and with the right tools and setup, you can play together seamlessly despite being on different WiFi networks.
Before we dive into the details, let’s clarify that Minecraft’s multiplayer mode requires a separate online account and a steady internet connection. If you’ve just started playing Minecraft, setting up your account and getting online access can take some time. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the game’s server options and settings before proceeding.
Method 1: LAN or Local Area Network
One straightforward way to play Minecraft with friends on different WiFi is by setting up a local area network (LAN) connection. This method requires all friends to be connected to the same network, as you’ll be playing offline mode.
Here’s what you need to do:
- Identify the host: Chose one friend to be the host of the game. This player will start the game and invite others to join using a LAN connection.
- Install a LAN game: The host starts a new game in survival mode or creative mode, depending on their preference. Make sure to select a random or custom game name (if you’re playing multiplayer with friends, you’ll often give your game a unique name). If you’re playing on console or mobile, you might have different options for setting up local play.
- Join the game: Using the same game name, invited players join the game by loading up the game and selecting the same option as the host. You’ll typically need to enter the host’s gamertag or game name to access the multiplayer mode.
- Play as one: Once all players are online and connected, you’re all set to play together! Communication will be key, as online connectivity isn’t required for cooperative play.
Method 2: Host Server or Online Multiplayer
For a more scalable experience with friends on different WiFi connections, set up a host server or online multiplayer. This method requires minimal additional setup and allows for seamless remote gameplay.
Here’s what you need to do:
- Create a server: Each host creates a server by editing their server.properties file. Edit this file to set the servername, port number, allow-list (to deny unknown players), and gamemode (survival or creative). You can also set optional rules, such as difficulty, difficulty-finding, and hide-server.
- Invite and configure: Share the server’s public IP address and port number (port 25565 or chosen number) with friends. They enter these details in the game’s servers browser to join the server (default:
localhost
). Update the server settings to allow join on the same network; by default, it’s closed off. - Play as intended: Using the server’s public IP or an online multiplayer service (see below), friends join your custom server. You can now work together seamlessly, even if you’re at home, school, or exploring on different WiFi networks.
Tools for Easier Online Multiplayer:
To simplify multiplayer with friends on different WiFi connections:
- Minecraft Realms: A subscription-based service that allows playing and hosting servers online using Mojang’s infrastructure. Realms include features like automatic backups and accessible realms.
- BedWars: A popular Minecraft-focused Discord bot that helps manage guilds, servers, and online communications, all while providing a seamless LAN-to-online transition.
- CubeCraft: A Minecraft add-on that enables cross-server gaming for friends on different domains.
- MCreator: A Minecraft modding studio tool that allows creating custom servers.
TIPS AND TRICKS for a smoother experience
Connection Troubleshooting:
Keep your internet connection stable and strong.
- Ping: 50 milliseconds and below for a satisfactory gameplay experience.
- Latency: Should remain below 100 milliseconds when sending and receiving data.
Other Issues:
- Firewall: Ensure your router’s firewall has an exception for Minecraft’s process. Firewalls can block incoming network connections and prevent online play.
Adding friends to your server:
- Each invited player must have his username and password ready at join time.
- Friends can join under
localhost
or the real server IP address along with the chosen port number.
| Server Settings | Optional Values |
| ---------------------------------- | ------------------- |
| Servername | Custom message |
| Port number | Your specified port |
| Allow List | Deny unknown hosts |
| Gamemode | Surv/Survival or Chr |