Quick answer: A Minecraft Bedrock server lets compatible Bedrock players share a hosted world. Download the free Bedrock Dedicated Server package directly from Minecraft, extract it into an empty folder, run the appropriate executable, configure server.properties, and allow the correct network traffic if friends connect from outside your home.
What to know first
Bedrock Dedicated Server (BDS) is the official standalone hosting software for Minecraft: Bedrock Edition. It is not a Java Edition server, and an unmodified Java client cannot connect to it as though both editions use the same network protocol. Pick the edition your friends actually play. Bedrock clients exist on several platforms, but the way a console enters a custom server address may vary by platform, version, and supported menu.
Step-by-step checklist
- Download server package. Verify the official documentation and the device or account you will use before beginning.
- Extract separate folder. Confirm your connection and sign-in details rather than guessing at defaults.
- Edit server.properties. Make the change in the service’s own settings and note what you changed.
- Start Bedrock server. Test the result with a small, reversible check before inviting other users.
- Test LAN and remote join. Keep a recovery path or backup so that a failed update can be reversed.
Download the official package
Open minecraft.net/en-us/download/server/bedrock and choose the installer package for your hosting operating system. Official published requirements list supported Windows versions and Ubuntu 22.04 LTS or later for the Linux build; unsupported Linux distributions are not promised to work. Extract the package into a dedicated directory rather than running it inside the ZIP or mixing its files with an unrelated Minecraft installation.
Configure the world before sharing it
Find server.properties in the extracted directory. Set the server name, the intended game mode, difficulty, player count, and allowlist settings carefully. Keep a copy of the original file so you can reverse mistakes. Start the executable or launch script and watch its log output for errors. After the first successful launch, the software creates the necessary world data. Shut down cleanly before replacing files or restoring a world backup.
Local testing comes before port forwarding
On the same local network, test joining with a compatible Bedrock client using the host’s private LAN address. This narrows problems to the game server before involving routers. For remote friends, check that the Bedrock port and protocol in server.properties match the router and host firewall; the usual Bedrock IPv4 default is UDP 19132. Port forwarding exposes a service to the internet, so update server software and allowlist players rather than opening unrelated ports.
Cross-play has limits
Bedrock supports cross-platform play across several device families, but console user interfaces may not let players type arbitrary third-party server addresses as easily as a PC or mobile client. Never promise that every console can join every private address with one click. If your friends only want an easily managed shared world without a self-hosted PC and router administration, an official Realm may be simpler, although it is a different service model.
Performance, backups, and privacy
Set aside enough CPU, memory, storage, and upload bandwidth for the world size and concurrent players. Minecraft’s published requirements include a 4 GB RAM recommendation in its system-requirements listing. Keep daily backups of the world folder and test a restore occasionally. Do not publish your home IP address on a public website; share connection details only with the people who need them. Shut the server down cleanly when updating the package.
Compare your options
| Option or case | Details | Best use / note |
|---|---|---|
| Bedrock Dedicated Server | Bedrock clients | Usually UDP 19132 |
| Java dedicated server | Java clients | Usually TCP 25565 |
| Minecraft Realms | Compatible edition’s invited members | Managed hosting; no home router port forwarding |
Common questions
Can Minecraft Java Edition join a Bedrock server?
Not with vanilla clients. The editions use different networking and feature systems. Third-party compatibility projects are outside this official setup guide.
Is the official Bedrock server software free?
Yes. Minecraft provides a free dedicated-server download; hardware, internet, or third-party hosting fees are separate.
What should I check if friends cannot join?
Confirm edition and version, test LAN first, inspect the server logs, then verify the host firewall and router’s UDP port-forward mapping.
Does the Bedrock server have to be online all day?
Only while players need access. The host must be running and reachable during sessions; schedule backups before shutting it down.
Further reading and verification
Consult the Minecraft: Bedrock Dedicated Server download for current official instructions and eligibility. For related reading on AVARIXO, see our related guide. Product interfaces and requirements can change; recheck the live service before acting on security settings or reinstalling software.
