The short answer
In Minecraft: Java Edition, use Open to LAN for friends on the same network. For friends elsewhere, run the free server software at home or rent an always-on server. A rented server lets friends play while your computer is off.
What are the ways to play Minecraft with friends?
| Way | Good for | What it takes |
|---|---|---|
| Open to LAN | Friends on the same network. | No separate server software is needed. Friends can play while the host has the world open. |
| A server at home | A crew with someone who can configure the server and router, and leave a computer running. | The free server software, Java, port forwarding and a computer running whenever friends want to play. |
| A rented server | Friends who want to play without waiting for the host to turn on their computer. | Your crew pays a monthly hosting bill. |
How does Open to LAN work?
In a single-player world, open the pause menu and choose Open to LAN. Friends on the same network can look for the world in their Multiplayer list. The world stays saved when the host quits, but friends can't play until it's open again. Open to LAN doesn't let friends join over the internet.
How do I run a Minecraft server at home?
- Download the server software from minecraft.net and install the Java version it asks for.
- Run it once, then accept the EULA by setting eula=true in the eula.txt file it creates.
- Start it again. The world is generated in the server's folder.
- Forward TCP port 25565 on your router to that computer, and give friends your public IP address.
- Leave the computer on whenever anyone wants to play.
If you already have a suitable computer and internet connection, electricity is the extra cost. You manage the server yourself. One friend manages the computer, router and backups, and pays for the electricity. If that friend stops running the server, the rest of you can't play there.
Opening a port lets the internet reach that computer. Keep the server updated, and use the whitelist so only your friends can join.
When is renting a server worth it?
Rent if your friends live apart and nobody wants to run a home server. Friends can then play while the organiser's computer is off. Friends can join a rented server over the internet. Check whether the hosting plan includes backups and who manages them.
- Check whose account controls the server and who else can manage it.
- Check what happens to the server and world files if payments stop.
- Check whether you can download the world, so you can always take it with you.
Who owns the server on Radclub?
On Radclub the server belongs to your club. Everyone chips in to one jar, Radbot sets the server up, and only invited friends get on the whitelist. Always on, a Minecraft server costs the club from €17.50 a month, split between the friends who chip in.
See Minecraft hosting or learn how to split the server bill with friends.
Questions people ask
- Is it free to host a Minecraft server?
- Hosting at home uses free software, but you need a computer, an internet connection and electricity. Get the software from minecraft.net and keep the computer running while friends play.
- Which port does a Minecraft server use?
- Java Edition servers use TCP port 25565 unless you change it in server.properties.
- Do my friends need to be on the same network?
- Only for Open to LAN. Friends on other networks can join a home server configured for internet access or a rented server.
Sources and method
- Prices, server sizes and player limits come from GameClub's catalogue, the store Radclub sells from, and update on their own when it changes.
- Minecraft: Java Edition server software, minecraft.net · checked 7 November 2026
- Tutorial: Setting up a Java Edition server, Minecraft Wiki · checked 7 November 2026
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