Quick answer
Use Public Servers for a listed address, Realms for an invite-based paid world, or LAN for players on the same local network. Choose the path that matches where your friends are.
Method 1: Public server
- Launch Java Edition on the version supported by the server.
- Select Multiplayer → Add Server.
- Enter a name and the server address supplied by its owner, then Done → Join Server.
Illustrative launcher menu
Server NameMy friends’ world
Server Addressplay.example.net
ActionDone → Join Server
Method 2: Minecraft Realms
The owner buys a Java Realm, invites friends by their exact Java username, and keeps the world available through the subscription. Invitees open Minecraft Realms in the Java main menu. Realms for Bedrock and Java are different products.
Official Realms ↗Method 3: LAN
- All players connect to the same local network.
- The host loads a Java single-player world and selects Esc → Open to LAN → Start LAN World.
- Friends open Multiplayer and look for the LAN world; if it does not appear, use Direct Connection with the host’s local IP and displayed port.
Firewalls and guest Wi-Fi isolation can block discovery. LAN does not create a public internet server.
Sources and review
Reviewed 12 October 2026. Primary reference. Confirm live codes, prices, patch notes and account rules before publication.