Dreaming of building a Minecraft world with friends, but not sure how to host a Bedrock server? You’re definitely not alone. With Minecraft’s popularity soaring, the desire to create private multiplayer worlds has never been higher.
Deciding how to host a Bedrock server is crucial—it affects gameplay, security, and how easily friends can connect. This article will guide you through your options, walk you step-by-step through setup, and share tips for a smooth, fun multiplayer experience. Let’s get started!
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How to Host a Minecraft Bedrock Server: A Complete Guide
Minecraft Bedrock Edition has taken the world by storm, offering a fun, cross-platform experience for players on PC, mobile, console, and more. Hosting your own Minecraft Bedrock server lets you create a private world where you and your friends can play together, set your own rules, and enjoy smooth multiplayer gameplay without random interruptions. But how exactly do you host a Minecraft Bedrock server? Let’s break down everything you need to know.
What is Minecraft Bedrock Server Hosting?
In simple terms, Minecraft Bedrock server hosting allows you to run a persistent world of Minecraft Bedrock Edition on dedicated hardware—either your own computer or a rented server from a specialized hosting company. This means the server is always available for you and your friends, regardless of whose device is on.
There are two main approaches to Bedrock server hosting:
- Self-Hosting: Running the server from your own PC or device.
- Third-Party Hosting: Renting server space from companies that specialize in Minecraft hosting.
Each has distinct benefits and challenges that we’ll explore below.
Step-by-Step: How to Host a Minecraft Bedrock Server
Let’s review the practical steps and considerations to set up your Minecraft Bedrock server.
1. Decide Between Self-Hosting and Third-Party Hosting
Self-Hosting:
- Pros: Free (aside from your own electricity and hardware costs), full control, highly customizable.
- Cons: Requires technical know-how, you’ll need to keep your device running at all times, limited by your hardware and internet speed.
Third-Party Hosting:
- Pros: Reliable uptime, technical support, scalable performance, no strain on your home network or hardware.
- Cons: Involves a recurring cost, some customization limits depending on the host, server location might impact latency.
2. Self-Hosting: How to Set Up a Server on Your Device
If you choose to self-host, follow these general steps:
- Check Your System Requirements
- Ensure your device meets the recommended requirements: at least 2GB of RAM, a stable internet connection, and available storage space.
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Windows 10/11, Linux, and sometimes MacOS are suitable platforms.
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Download Bedrock Server Software
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Obtain the latest dedicated server package from the official Minecraft website (typically available via a free download).
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Extract and Configure
- Unzip the downloaded file to a folder of your choice.
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Customize the “server.properties” file for your world settings (like game mode, max players, etc.).
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Set Up Port Forwarding
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Log into your router and forward port 19132 (UDP) to allow others to connect to your server over the internet.
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Run the Server
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Launch the server executable file. You should see a command window that shows the server status.
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Share IP Address
- Give your public IP and port information to friends so they can connect.
Note: Be cautious with your security settings. Hosting a server can expose your device to the internet, so use strong passwords and update your software regularly.
3. Third-Party Hosting: Using a Professional Server Host
For the smoothest experience, many players opt for a professional server hosting company. Here’s how the process works:
- Choose a Hosting Company
- Popular choices include providers that specialize in Minecraft Bedrock hosting.
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Look for customer support, user-friendly interfaces, reliability, and performance guarantees.
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Select a Server Plan
- Consider how many players you expect and choose a plan with enough RAM and CPU resources.
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Some hosts offer flexible plans that can be upgraded as your needs grow.
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Customize Your Server
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Most hosts provide a control panel where you can tweak settings, install plugins/add-ons, and manage backups.
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Share Server Details
- Share the server IP and port with your friends. With professional hosting, your server stays online 24/7.
4. Comparing Major Minecraft Bedrock Hosting Providers
When picking a host, compare these critical features:
- Performance: Solid-state drives (SSDs), modern processors, and high memory allocations provide smooth gameplay.
- Uptime Guarantees: Look for 99.9% or higher uptime to minimize downtime.
- Support: 24/7 support via live chat or tickets is essential for quick troubleshooting.
- Server Locations: Choose a data center close to you for the lowest latency.
- Automatic Backups: Regular backups ensure you never lose progress.
- Easy Setup: One-click installers and easy-to-navigate dashboards are a time-saver.
Some hosts go the extra mile with DDoS protection, mod/plugin support, and free subdomains.
Benefits of Hosting Your Own Minecraft Bedrock Server
Why go through the effort of hosting your own server? Here are the main advantages:
- Full Control: You set the rules, whitelist players, install add-ons, and customize worlds as you wish.
- Persistent Worlds: Your world is always online, so friends can play whenever they like.
- Enhanced Security and Privacy: Play in a controlled environment with only people you trust.
- Resource Management: Allocate server resources based on your group’s needs.
- Fun Community Building: Running a server brings friends together, creating memorable shared experiences.
Challenges and Considerations
While hosting is rewarding, keep these potential challenges in mind:
- Technical Complexity: Self-hosting can be tricky if you’re new to networking or server management.
- Security Risks: Poor configuration may expose your system to online threats.
- Cost: Professional hosting services range from a few dollars to higher monthly fees, especially for large or heavily modded servers.
- Performance Bottlenecks: Insufficient hardware or bandwidth can cause lag and crashes.
- Software Compatibility: Not all add-ons or plugins are available for Bedrock as they are for the Java Edition.
Practical Tips and Best Practices
Maximize your server’s performance and safety with these helpful guidelines:
For Self-Hosting
- Regularly Back Up Your World: Accidents happen—frequent backups save your progress.
- Limit Unwanted Connections: Use whitelists and strong administrative passwords to control access.
- Monitor Server Performance: Keep an eye on CPU and RAM usage to preempt issues.
- Stay Updated: Regularly check for server software updates to benefit from bug fixes and new features.
For Third-Party Hosting
- Read Reviews: Choose a provider with a solid reputation in the Minecraft community.
- Test Customer Support: Send a test question to gauge their response time and helpfulness.
- Pick the Right Server Location: The closer the server is to your main player base, the smoother the gameplay.
- Take Advantage of the Control Panel: Use provided tools for mod installation, backups, and automatic restarts.
General Tips
- Communicate with Your Players: Share server rules, mod lists, and update schedules clearly.
- Foster a Positive Community: Encourage friendly interactions to keep players coming back.
- Plan for Growth: Select scalable hardware or hosting plans that can handle more players as your server community grows.
Cost Considerations
While self-hosting is technically free (apart from power and internet costs), using a hosting provider usually entails:
- Monthly Fees: Plans range from just a few dollars per month for small servers (2-10 players) to $20 or more for advanced features and higher capacities.
- Instant Setup: Many hosts offer pay-as-you-go and instant server creation, so you can start playing without any technical setup.
- No Maintenance Hassles: The host manages hardware, backups, and uptime—all included in your fee.
- Optional Upgrades: Additional RAM, CPU, DDoS protection, or custom domains can increase costs.
Tip: Begin with an affordable plan and upgrade as your player base grows.
Conclusion
Hosting a Minecraft Bedrock server is a fantastic way to enhance your multiplayer experience. Whether you choose to self-host or use a professional provider, you gain the freedom to build your own worlds, play with friends at any time, and enjoy ultimate control over your gaming environment.
Start by evaluating your technical comfort and budget. Self-hosting is great for those who want complete control and don’t mind some setup, while third-party hosting is ideal for hassle-free, reliable, and high-performance gameplay. By following the steps and best practices outlined here, you’ll be well on your way to creating an unforgettable Minecraft Bedrock world.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I run a Minecraft Bedrock server for free?
Yes, you can self-host a Bedrock server from your own computer at no cost beyond your electricity and internet bill. However, be mindful of possible limitations like lower performance, potential security risks, and the need to keep your device running for your server to be accessible.
2. How many players can join my Minecraft Bedrock server?
The player limit depends on your server’s hardware (CPU, RAM) or the hosting plan you purchase. Most self-hosted setups can comfortably support up to 10 players, while hosting providers often offer plans for anywhere from 10 up to hundreds of players.
3. What’s the difference between Bedrock and Java server hosting?
Bedrock servers allow cross-play across mobile, consoles, and Windows 10/11—while Java Edition servers are limited to PC and Mac. Bedrock servers tend to be more resource-efficient but might have fewer customization options compared to Java.
4. Do I need to port forward for third-party hosting?
No, with professional server hosts, you don’t need to worry about port forwarding. The host manages all networking and security, providing you with a ready-to-use IP and port.
5. Can I add mods or plugins to my Bedrock server?
Yes, you can add add-ons and certain mods to Bedrock servers, though compatibility is more limited than Java Edition. Many hosts provide easy tools for installing approved mods and add-ons. Always check mod/plugin compatibility with your host’s documentation.
With the right setup, hosting your own Minecraft Bedrock server is not only possible—it’s enjoyable, empowering, and rewarding. Happy crafting!