Hosting LAN Minecraft Servers: A Guide to Using Command Prompt

08. 31. 2023

Minecraft, the beloved sandbox game, becomes even more enjoyable when played with friends and family. If you want to host a local multiplayer Minecraft server for a LAN (Local Area Network) party, you can do so easily with the help of the Command Prompt. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to set up and host LAN Minecraft servers using Command Prompt, allowing you and your fellow gamers to embark on blocky adventures together.

Why Host a LAN Minecraft Server?

Hosting a LAN Minecraft server offers several advantages:

1. Low Latency: LAN servers provide minimal lag and a smooth gaming experience since players are physically close to each other.

2. Privacy: LAN servers are private, accessible only to devices connected to the same network, ensuring a secure and controlled gaming environment.

3. Customization: You have full control over the server settings, enabling you to customize the gameplay to your liking.

Prerequisites:

Before you begin, ensure you have the following:

1. Minecraft Java Edition: Make sure you and your friends have Minecraft Java Edition installed on your computers.

2. A Stable LAN Network: Ensure all devices are connected to the same local network.

3. Administrative Privileges: You need administrative rights on your computer to set up and host the server.

Setting Up a LAN Minecraft Server:

Follow these steps to host a LAN Minecraft server using Command Prompt:

1. Download the Minecraft Server Software:

   Visit the official Minecraft website (https://www.minecraft.net/en-us/download/server) and download the latest version of the Minecraft Server software for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).

2. Create a New Folder:

   Create a new folder on your computer where you want to store the server files. This folder will contain the server's configuration and world files.

3. Run the Minecraft Server:

   • Place the downloaded server file in the folder you created.

   • Open Command Prompt (on Windows, press Win + R, type "cmd," and press Enter).

   • Navigate to the server folder using the cd command. For example, if your folder is on the desktop, you can use cd Desktop/server-folder-name to navigate to it.

   • To start the server, enter the following command:

     java -Xmx1024M -Xms1024M -jar minecraft_server.jar nogui

     Replace "minecraft_server.jar" with the actual name of the server file you downloaded.

4. Adjust Server Settings:

   Once the server starts, it generates configuration files in the folder. You can customize these files to adjust server settings, such as game mode, difficulty, and world generation.

5. Share the Server IP:

   The server IP address will be displayed in the Command Prompt window. Share this IP with your friends on the same LAN network. They can join your server using this IP.

6. Join the Server:

   On each player's computer, open Minecraft Java Edition, click "Multiplayer," then "Direct Connect." Enter the server IP address, and click "Join Server" to connect.

Closing the Server:

To stop the server, return to the Command Prompt window where the server is running and press "Ctrl + C." Confirm the shutdown when prompted.

Enjoy LAN Adventures in Minecraft

Hosting a LAN Minecraft server using Command Prompt is a straightforward process that allows you to enjoy the game with friends and family on the same local network. It provides a private and low-latency gaming experience, perfect for LAN parties and cooperative adventures in the blocky world of Minecraft. Gather your fellow adventurers, embark on epic quests, and create lasting memories in the world of Minecraft LAN servers.