Minecraft Server Bedrock How To Host For Bedrock Edition

Minecraft Bedrock Edition offers a fantastic cross-platform experience, allowing players on consoles, mobile devices, and Windows 10 to connect and explore infinite worlds together. While joining public servers is easy, hosting your own Minecraft server Bedrock Edition opens up a world of possibilities for custom gameplay, private adventures with friends, and building unique communities. If you've ever dreamed of creating a dedicated space for your fellow crafters, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to host bedrock server successfully.

Setting up a Minecraft server Bedrock might seem daunting at first, but with the right steps, it's an achievable goal for anyone. Whether you're looking for a simple solution for a few friends or a more robust setup for a larger group, understanding your options is key. This article will break down the different ways to create bedrock server, from easy-to-use services to self-hosting a private Minecraft Bedrock server on your own hardware.

By the end of this comprehensive guide, you'll be equipped with the knowledge to choose the best hosting method for your needs and get your multiplayer Bedrock server up and running. Get ready to invite your friends and embark on unforgettable adventures in your very own custom Minecraft world!

Understanding Minecraft Server Bedrock Hosting Options

When it comes to setting up a Minecraft server Bedrock, you have several paths to choose from. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, catering to different technical skill levels, budgets, and desired levels of control. Let's explore the most common ways to run bedrock server.

Minecraft Realms: The Easiest Bedrock Server Option

For many players, Minecraft Realms is the simplest and most straightforward way to get a Minecraft server Bedrock up and running. Realms are official, subscription-based servers provided by Mojang (the creators of Minecraft). They are designed for ease of use, requiring minimal technical knowledge.

With Realms, you simply purchase a subscription directly through the Minecraft game client, and your server is instantly available. It supports up to 10 players simultaneously (plus the owner) and offers a selection of pre-made worlds, minigames, and adventure maps. The biggest advantage is that the server is always online, even when the owner isn't playing. This makes it an ideal solution for small groups of friends who want a hassle-free, always-available bedrock edition server setup. However, it offers less customization compared to other hosting methods, and you don't have direct access to the server files.

Self-Hosting a Free Bedrock Server on Your PC

If you're comfortable with a bit more technical setup and want full control over your world, self-hosting a Minecraft server Bedrock on your own computer is a viable option. Mojang provides official bedrock server software that you can download and run for free. This method allows you to customize server settings, install add-ons, and manage your world files directly.

The main benefit of self-hosting is the cost – it's a free bedrock server solution (aside from your electricity bill and internet connection). However, it comes with several considerations. Your computer needs to be powerful enough to handle the server and your own gameplay simultaneously. The server will only be online when your computer is running, and you'll likely need to configure your home network for bedrock server port forwarding to allow external players to join. This can be complex for beginners, but it offers the most flexibility for a private Minecraft Bedrock server. For more general guidance on setting up a server, you might find our article on create server minecraft helpful.

Third-Party Bedrock Server Hosting Providers

For those who want the control of a self-hosted server without the technical headaches and resource demands on their personal computer, third-party bedrock server hosting options are an excellent choice. These companies specialize in providing dedicated server space and resources for Minecraft. You pay a monthly fee, and they handle the hardware, network, and often provide user-friendly control panels to manage your Minecraft server Bedrock.

Hosting providers offer various plans, from small servers for a few friends to powerful dedicated bedrock server solutions for large communities. They typically boast better uptime, faster performance, and professional support, making them a reliable choice for a stable multiplayer Bedrock server. While it involves a recurring cost, it frees you from the technical complexities of port forwarding and ensures your server is always online and running smoothly. When considering options, looking into best minecraft server hosting can give you a good overview of what's available.

Step-by-Step Guide to Self-Host Your Minecraft Server Bedrock

If you've decided to self-host your Minecraft server Bedrock Edition, this section will guide you through the process. This method gives you maximum control but requires careful attention to detail.

Preparing Your System for Your Bedrock Server

Before you can host bedrock server, ensure your computer meets the basic requirements. You'll need:

Operating System: Windows 10/11 (64-bit), Ubuntu (64-bit), or Debian (64-bit).
Processor: A decent multi-core processor (Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 equivalent or better is recommended).
RAM: At least 4GB of RAM dedicated to the server, in addition to what your operating system and other applications use. More players and complex worlds will require more RAM.
Storage: Sufficient free disk space for the server software and your world files. An SSD is highly recommended for faster load times.
Internet Connection: A stable and fast internet connection with good upload speed is crucial for a smooth multiplayer Bedrock server experience.

Downloading the Minecraft Bedrock Server Software

The first real step to create bedrock server is to acquire the official server software.

Visit the Official Minecraft Website: Go to the official Minecraft website's server download page.
Locate Bedrock Server Software: Look for the "Minecraft for Windows (Bedrock) Dedicated Server" download link.
Download the File: Click the link to download minecraft server files. It will typically be a .zip archive.

Remember that Mojang regularly updates the server software, so always download the latest version for compatibility with the current game client. For general server downloads, you can also check out our guide on download minecraft server.

Setting Up Your Bedrock Server Files

Once downloaded, you need to set up the server files.

Create a Folder: Create a new, empty folder on your computer where you want to store your Minecraft server Bedrock files. Name it something clear, like "MyBedrockServer."
Extract Files: Extract the contents of the downloaded .zip file into this new folder.
Run the Server: Double-click the bedrock_server.exe (on Windows) or run the bedrock_server executable (on Linux) to start the server for the first time.
- A console window will appear, and the server will generate initial world files and a server.properties file.
- The server might stop after a few moments, or it might stay running.
Configure server.properties: This file is where you customize your bedrock edition server setup. Open server.properties with a text editor (like Notepad or VS Code).
- server-name: Give your server a unique name.
- gamemode: Set to survival, creative, or adventure.
- difficulty: Choose peaceful, easy, normal, or hard.
- max-players: Define how many players can join.
- online-mode: Keep this true for security (players must be logged into Xbox Live).
- level-name: The name of your world folder.
- Save the file after making changes.
Restart the Server: Run bedrock_server.exe again. Your Minecraft server Bedrock should now start with your custom settings.

Port Forwarding for Your Minecraft Server Bedrock

This is often the trickiest part of self-hosting, but it's essential if you want friends outside your local network to join your private Minecraft Bedrock server. Port forwarding directs incoming connections from the internet to your specific computer running the server.

Find Your Router's IP Address: Open Command Prompt (Windows) and type ipconfig. Look for "Default Gateway." This is your router's IP.
Access Router Settings: Open a web browser and type your router's IP address into the address bar. You'll need to log in (check your router's manual or sticker for default credentials).
Locate Port Forwarding Settings: This varies by router brand, but generally look for sections like "Port Forwarding," "NAT," "Virtual Servers," or "Firewall."
Create a New Rule:
- External/Internal Port: Minecraft Bedrock Edition uses UDP port 19132. Enter 19132 for both.
- Protocol: Select UDP.
- Internal IP Address: This is the local IP address of the computer running your Minecraft server Bedrock. Find this using ipconfig (look for "IPv4 Address").
- Enable/Apply: Save and enable the rule.
- For more detailed steps, refer to our guide on minecraft server port.
Test Your Port Forward: You can use online port checker tools to verify that port 19132 is open.

Important Security Note: Port forwarding can expose your network. Only forward ports for trusted applications. If you're unsure, consider using a third-party hosting service or Minecraft Realms.

Connecting to Your Private Minecraft Bedrock Server

Once your Minecraft server Bedrock is running and port forwarding is configured, it's time to connect!

For Players on the Same Network: Your friends on the same Wi-Fi network can join by going to "Play" -> "Servers" -> "Add Server" and entering your computer's local IP address (the one you used for port forwarding) and port 19132.
For Players Outside Your Network: They will need your public IP address. You can find this by searching "What is my IP" on Google. Provide them with this public IP address and port 19132.

Make sure your server is always running when you want people to connect. This is how you truly host bedrock server for the world to see.

Managing and Maintaining Your Minecraft Server Bedrock

Running a Minecraft server Bedrock isn't just about the initial setup; it also involves ongoing management to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all players.

Essential Bedrock Server Commands

As the server operator, you'll have access to various commands to manage your bedrock edition server setup. You can type these directly into the server console window or, if you're an operator in-game, into the chat.

/op [playername]: Grants operator privileges to a player, allowing them to use admin commands.
/deop [playername]: Removes operator privileges.
/whitelist add [playername]: Adds a player to the server whitelist (if enabled in server.properties).
/whitelist remove [playername]: Removes a player from the whitelist.
/kick [playername] [reason]: Removes a player from the server.
/ban [playername] [reason]: Bans a player from the server.
/pardon [playername]: Unbans a player.
/save-all: Forces the server to save all chunks to disk.
/stop: Shuts down the Minecraft server Bedrock gracefully. Always use this command instead of just closing the window to prevent world corruption.

These commands are vital for maintaining order and security on your multiplayer Bedrock server.

Backing Up Your Bedrock Server World

Regular backups are non-negotiable for any Minecraft server Bedrock. Accidents happen, worlds can get corrupted, or you might make a mistake.

Stop the Server: Before backing up, always use the /stop command in the server console to ensure all world data is saved and the server is offline.
Copy the World Folder: Navigate to your server's main folder. You'll see a folder named after your level-name from server.properties. Copy this entire folder to a safe location (e.g., an external hard drive, cloud storage).
Restart the Server: Once the copy is complete, you can restart your Minecraft server Bedrock.

Make a habit of backing up your world regularly, especially before making significant changes or updates. This safeguards countless hours of building and exploration on your private Minecraft Bedrock server.

Keeping Your Bedrock Server Updated

Mojang frequently releases updates for Minecraft Bedrock Edition, bringing new features, bug fixes, and performance improvements. To ensure your Minecraft server Bedrock remains compatible with the latest game client and benefits from these enhancements, you'll need to update your server software.

Check for Updates: Periodically visit the official Minecraft server download page to see if a newer version of the bedrock server software is available.
Stop the Server: Use the /stop command.
Backup Your World: Always back up your world folder before updating!
Download New Software: Download the latest bedrock_server.zip file.
Replace Old Files: Extract the contents of the new .zip file into your existing server folder. Crucially, do NOT overwrite your worlds folder, server.properties, or whitelist.json files. Only replace the executable and library files.
Restart the Server: Start the server again.

Following these steps will keep your bedrock edition server setup running smoothly and up-to-date.

Choosing the Best Bedrock Server Hosting Provider

If self-hosting seems too complex or unreliable for your needs, a third-party hosting provider is a fantastic alternative for your Minecraft server Bedrock. They handle the technical heavy lifting, allowing you to focus on playing.

Key Factors for Bedrock Server Hosting

When evaluating bedrock server hosting options, consider these points:

Performance: Look for hosts with powerful CPUs, ample RAM, and SSD storage. This ensures low latency and a lag-free experience for your multiplayer Bedrock server.
Reliability & Uptime: A good host guarantees high uptime, meaning your server is almost always online.
Support: 24/7 customer support is invaluable for troubleshooting issues.
Control Panel: A user-friendly control panel (like Multicraft or custom panels) makes it easy to manage your server settings, backups, and player permissions.
Price: Compare pricing plans based on the resources offered. Don't just go for the cheapest; balance cost with quality.
Features: Look for features like automatic backups, DDoS protection, mod/add-on support, and easy world uploads.
Location: Choose a server location geographically close to most of your players to minimize ping.

For a deeper dive into choosing a host, our article on host minecraft server can provide additional insights.

Popular Bedrock Server Hosting Services

There are many reputable hosting providers that offer excellent services for a Minecraft server Bedrock. While we can't endorse specific companies, a quick search for "Bedrock Edition server hosting" will reveal many options. Some providers might even offer a free minecraft server hosting trial period, allowing you to test their services before committing. These services often provide a more stable and managed environment than self-hosting, making them ideal for those who want a robust dedicated bedrock server without the technical overhead. They also often use specialized minecraft server software optimized for performance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Hosting a Minecraft Server Bedrock

Can I host a free bedrock server?

Yes, you can host bedrock server for free on your own computer by downloading the official Bedrock Dedicated Server software from Mojang. However, this requires your computer to be on constantly, a stable internet connection, and often involves complex port forwarding. There are also some free third-party hosting services, but they often come with limitations like lower performance or advertising.

What's the difference between Realms and a self-hosted Minecraft server Bedrock?

Minecraft Realms are official, subscription-based servers from Mojang that are always online and very easy to set up, ideal for small groups. A self-hosted Minecraft server Bedrock runs on your own computer, giving you full control over settings and files, but it's only online when your computer is, and requires more technical setup, including port forwarding.

Do I need a powerful computer to host bedrock server?

For a small private Minecraft Bedrock server with a few players, a moderately powerful computer (e.g., Intel Core i5/Ryzen 5 with 4-8GB RAM dedicated to the server) can suffice. However, for more players, larger worlds, or heavy use of add-ons, you'll need more powerful hardware, especially a good processor and ample RAM, to prevent lag and ensure a smooth multiplayer Bedrock server experience.

Can Java players join a bedrock edition server setup?

No, natively, Java Edition players cannot join a bedrock edition server setup, and vice versa. They are fundamentally different versions of the game. However, there are third-party server software solutions (like GeyserMC) that act as proxies, allowing Java players to connect to a Bedrock server (or vice-versa) by translating the game protocols. This requires additional setup on your Minecraft server Bedrock.

How do I secure my private Minecraft Bedrock server?

To secure your private Minecraft Bedrock server, always keep online-mode=true in your server.properties file to ensure players authenticate via Xbox Live. Use a strong whitelist to control who can join. Regularly back up your world. Be cautious with port forwarding, and only open the necessary port (19132 UDP). Keep your server software updated to patch any vulnerabilities.

Conclusion

Hosting your own Minecraft server Bedrock Edition is a rewarding experience that allows you to craft unique worlds and share them with friends across various platforms. Whether you opt for the simplicity of Minecraft Realms, the hands-on control of self-hosting, or the reliability of a third-party provider, the journey to create bedrock server is well within your reach.

By understanding the different bedrock server hosting options and following the detailed steps for setup and maintenance, you can ensure your multiplayer Bedrock server provides countless hours of fun. From configuring your server.properties file to mastering bedrock server port forwarding and implementing essential commands, you're now equipped to manage your very own corner of the Minecraft universe. So go forth, build, explore, and enjoy the endless possibilities of your custom Minecraft server Bedrock!