You can play Minecraft solo, but it's much more fun with friends. Here's how to play multiplayer in Minecraft: Java Edition.

Setting up a multiplayer game in Minecraft is a simple process, but it varies slightly based on which platform you're using and the location of other players.

We'll cover the prerequisites for joining friends in Minecraft, no matter which version you're playing, as well as troubleshoot some common issues found when trying to play Minecraft multiplayer.

One of the longest-running divides in the Minecraft community is the one between Java and Bedrock. Java is the original version of the game, while Bedrock is the Microsoft-funded rewrite in C++.

There are three ways to play multiplayer in "Minecraft: Java Edition:" through an online server, a LAN server, or a "Minecraft Realms" server.

Venture into our top Minecraft servers list to discover a galaxy of new and exciting multiplayer worlds that are free to join in 2025.

Minecraft cross-platform multiplayer lets you play the game online with friends across different consoles and devices.

Minecraft: Java Edition is the original version of the game for computers, while Bedrock is a newer version available on nearly every device.