How to make a Minecraft Bedrock server (and a Java + Bedrock server)
Official Bedrock Dedicated Server, a host, Realms, or a Java server with Geyser to welcome mobile and console players too: how to make a Minecraft Bedrock server step by step.
Updated on
A Bedrock server welcomes players on mobile, Windows, Xbox, PlayStation and Switch. There are two main ways to make one: a real Bedrock server, or a Java server also open to Bedrock players.
Option 1: the official Bedrock Dedicated Server
Mojang provides the Bedrock Dedicated Server for free (Windows and Linux), downloadable from the official Minecraft website.
- Unzip the archive into a dedicated folder.
- Open
server.properties: server name, game mode, difficulty, max players, port (server-port=19132). - Start the server (
bedrock_server.exeon Windows). - For players outside your home, open port 19132 UDP: see opening ports.
This server is customised with add-ons (behaviour and resource packs), not plugins. Unofficial software such as PocketMine-MP or Nukkit adds plugins, but sometimes lags behind game updates.
Option 2: a Java server open to Bedrock players (cross-play)
This is what most big servers do: a Java server (Paper) with the Geyser plugin, which translates Bedrock players' connections, and Floodgate, so they do not need a Java account.
- You keep every Java plugin (the essentials).
- PC and mobile/console players play together: it is a cross-play server.
- Open two ports: 25565 TCP (Java) and 19132 UDP (Bedrock, for Geyser).
The Java server basics are in how to make a Minecraft server.
Option 3: a host or Realms
- A Minecraft host installs Bedrock or Paper + Geyser in one click, with a server online 24/7. See choosing a host.
- Realms (Mojang subscription): the simplest for a few invited friends, but not for a public server.
Console players
On PlayStation, Xbox and Switch you cannot add a server by hand: only Mojang's partner servers are listed. Your console players use workarounds (companion app, DNS) explained in playing on a Bedrock server from a console. On mobile and Windows, adding a server is direct.
Getting your first players
Once online, list your server for free: it shows up among Bedrock servers and on the mobile and console pages. Then read our tips to attract players.
FAQ
How do I make a free Minecraft Bedrock server?
Download the official Bedrock Dedicated Server (free), set up server.properties and start it on your PC. For players far away, open port 19132 UDP on your router.
Can I make a Minecraft server for both Java and Bedrock?
Yes: a Java server (Paper) with the Geyser and Floodgate plugins also accepts Bedrock players (mobile, consoles). This is called a cross-play server.
Which port does a Minecraft Bedrock server use?
Port 19132 UDP by default (changeable in server.properties with server-port).
Can I add plugins to a Bedrock server?
The official server uses add-ons, not plugins. For plugins, use a Java server with Geyser, or unofficial software such as PocketMine-MP or Nukkit.