What does LAN mean in Minecraft?

Answered by Jarrod Smith

Local Area Network (LAN) in Minecraft refers to playing the game with other players who are connected to the same network. This can be done within your home or any local area network, such as a school or office network.

To set up a LAN game in Minecraft, you need to follow different procedures based on the device you are using. Let’s explore how to connect for Minecraft on various devices:

1. Mobile Devices:
– Ensure that all devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
– Launch the Minecraft app on each device.
– Select “Play” on the main menu and then choose “Create New” or “Join” depending on whether you want to host the game or join an existing one.
– If you are hosting the game, set the game settings as desired and select “Start LAN World.”
– On the other devices, select “Play” and then choose the “Friends” tab. The LAN game should appear in the list, and you can join it by tapping on it.

2. Nintendo Switch:
– Connect all Nintendo Switch consoles to the same local wireless network.
– Launch Minecraft on each console.
– On the console hosting the game, select “Play” from the main menu, then choose “Create New.”
– Adjust the game settings and select “Start Local Network Game.”
– On the other consoles, select “Play” from the main menu, then choose “Join.”
– The LAN game should appear in the list, and you can join it by selecting it.

3. PlayStation:
– Ensure that all PlayStation consoles are connected to the same local network.
– Launch Minecraft on each console.
– On the console hosting the game, select “Play” from the main menu, then choose “Create New.”
– Customize the game settings and select “Start.”
– On the other consoles, select “Play” from the main menu, then choose “Join.”
– The LAN game should be visible, and you can join it by selecting it.

4. Windows:
– Connect all computers to the same local network.
– Launch Minecraft on each computer.
– On the computer hosting the game, select “Multiplayer” from the main menu.
– Choose “Open to LAN” and adjust the game settings as desired.
– Other players can join the LAN game by selecting “Multiplayer” and looking for the game in the LAN section.

5. Xbox:
– Ensure that all Xbox consoles are connected to the same local network.
– Launch Minecraft on each console.
– On the console hosting the game, select “Play” from the main menu, then choose “Create New.”
– Customize the game settings and select “Host.”
– On the other consoles, select “Play” from the main menu, then choose “Join.”
– The LAN game should appear in the list, and you can join it by selecting it.

It’s important to remember that when playing on a LAN, all players should have a legitimate copy of the game and be connected to the same network. Additionally, network settings and firewalls may need to be configured to allow Minecraft traffic.

Playing Minecraft on a LAN can be a fun way to collaborate and explore the game together with friends or family members. It allows for easier communication and interaction, making the gameplay experience more engaging and enjoyable. So gather your fellow Minecraft enthusiasts, set up a LAN game, and embark on exciting adventures in the blocky world of Minecraft!