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Bedrock Together: Bridging the Minecraft Divide

Bedrock Together is a third-party application that allows Minecraft: Bedrock Edition players on Xbox and PlayStation consoles to connect to custom servers without needing to engage in complex DNS rerouting or other technical workarounds. It essentially tricks the console into thinking the custom server is a Local Area Network (LAN) server, enabling a direct and relatively straightforward connection. While not officially supported by Mojang, Bedrock Together provides a crucial bridge for console players eager to explore the broader Minecraft server ecosystem.

Diving Deeper: How Bedrock Together Works

The core function of Bedrock Together revolves around bypassing the restrictions that Microsoft and Sony place on console players connecting to external Minecraft servers. Unlike the PC or mobile versions of Bedrock Edition, consoles traditionally limit server access to official partners, Realms, or through methods like manually altering DNS settings. This creates a barrier for players wanting to explore diverse community-run servers.

Bedrock Together elegantly sidesteps this issue by acting as a proxy. You input the IP address and port of the desired Bedrock server into the application. When you run the app, it effectively creates a localized connection, making the console believe the server is on the same local network. As a result, the server appears in the “LAN” section of the “Friends” tab within the Minecraft game on your console. You can then select the server and join as if it were a game hosted by someone in your living room.

It’s crucial to remember that Bedrock Together is a workaround, not an official feature. As such, its reliability can vary. Updates to the Minecraft game, console firmware, or the application itself may occasionally break its functionality. However, when it works, it provides a seamless and valuable experience for console-based Minecraft players. This innovative use of technology for educational and community-building purposes demonstrates the potential within gaming, much like the research explored by the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.

Understanding Limitations

While Bedrock Together opens doors to countless new experiences, it has limitations:

Platform Support: Primarily designed for Xbox and PlayStation consoles.
Nintendo Switch Incompatibility: Does not support the Nintendo Switch.
Realms Issues: Incompatible with Minecraft Realms. If you’re using Realms, you will have to disable it to use Bedrock Together.
Beta Versions: Can be unreliable with beta versions of Minecraft. It is best practice to revert to the standard releases.
Third-Party Nature: Is not an officially supported application, so functionality may change or cease due to updates of Minecraft itself.
Port Forwarding: Depending on your home network setup, you might need to configure port forwarding on your router for Bedrock Together to work correctly. This involves opening specific ports (usually 19132, the default Bedrock port) and directing them to the device running the Bedrock Together application.
Server Compatibility: Some servers might not be fully compatible due to different game versions or customized features.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is Bedrock Together safe to use?

Bedrock Together is generally considered safe, as it doesn’t require you to download any potentially harmful files or modify your game’s core code. However, like any third-party application, you should download it from a reputable source to minimize the risk of malware. Always exercise caution and read reviews before downloading.

2. Does Bedrock Together require any special software on the server side?

No, Bedrock Together does not require any special software or modifications to be installed on the Minecraft server itself. It works by manipulating the client-side connection on your console, not by altering the server’s configuration.

3. Why isn’t my server showing up in the LAN tab after running Bedrock Together?

There could be several reasons:

Incorrect IP Address/Port: Double-check that you’ve entered the correct IP address and port number of the Bedrock server.
Firewall Issues: Ensure your firewall isn’t blocking the connection. Add exceptions for the Bedrock Together application and Minecraft itself.
Network Problems: Ensure your console and the device running Bedrock Together are on the same network.
Port Forwarding: Make sure port forwarding is set up correctly, if needed.
Application Errors: Try restarting the Bedrock Together application and your console.

4. Can I use Bedrock Together to connect to Java Edition servers?

No, Bedrock Together is specifically designed for connecting to Bedrock Edition servers. Java Edition and Bedrock Edition use different protocols and are not cross-compatible.

5. Do I need a Microsoft account to use Bedrock Together?

Yes, you need a Microsoft account to play Minecraft: Bedrock Edition, regardless of whether you are using Bedrock Together or not. This is because Minecraft uses a Microsoft account for authentication and account management.

6. Is Bedrock Together legal?

Using Bedrock Together is not illegal. It uses the mechanics of the game as it is to access non-official servers.

7. Will I get banned from Minecraft for using Bedrock Together?

It’s highly unlikely you’ll get banned for using Bedrock Together. Mojang hasn’t explicitly prohibited its use, and it doesn’t involve hacking or cheating. However, use it at your own discretion.

8. Does Bedrock Together work on mobile devices?

No, Bedrock Together is not necessary for mobile devices. The mobile version of Minecraft: Bedrock Edition allows direct connections to external servers without any workarounds.

9. What if Bedrock Together stops working after a Minecraft update?

This is a common occurrence. Updates can change the network protocols or security measures that Bedrock Together relies on. The developers of Bedrock Together typically release updates to address these changes. Keep an eye on the application’s official website or community forums for updates.

10. Does Bedrock Together affect my internet speed?

Bedrock Together itself doesn’t significantly affect your internet speed. However, playing on a server, especially one with high traffic or located far away, can impact your ping and overall gameplay experience.

11. Do both players on the same console require a copy of Minecraft: Bedrock Edition?

Yes. Minecraft: Bedrock Edition is purchased on a per-account basis.

12. How do I find good Bedrock Edition servers to join?

There are numerous online resources that list popular Bedrock Edition servers. Look for websites, forums, or Discord communities dedicated to Minecraft servers. Consider factors like server population, game modes, and community reviews when choosing a server.

13. Can I host my own Bedrock Edition server and use Bedrock Together to connect to it?

Yes, you can host your own Bedrock Edition server and use Bedrock Together to connect to it from your console. You’ll need to configure the server correctly and ensure it’s accessible from your network. This is an excellent way to create a private gaming environment for you and your friends.

14. Are there alternatives to Bedrock Together?

Other apps are available, and there are DNS re-routing methods that can bypass the requirements of Bedrock Together. Many of these are listed on the internet with instructions how to set them up.

15. What is the purpose of Minecraft Bedrock Edition?

Minecraft Bedrock Edition has the core features of Minecraft, along with cross-play capabilities and a built-in store where you can purchase add-ons and skins.

What is bedrock together app?