LAN Servers Not Showing Up in Windows 10 Minecraft: Finding Solutions
12.18.2021
Minecraft, the immensely popular sandbox game, offers a variety of multiplayer options, including LAN (Local Area Network) gameplay. LAN servers allow players on the same network to connect and play together seamlessly. However, some players may encounter an issue where LAN servers do not show up in the Windows 10 version of Minecraft, preventing them from joining their friends or family in local multiplayer sessions. In this article, we will explore possible solutions to address the problem of LAN servers not showing up in Windows 10 Minecraft and enable players to enjoy multiplayer gameplay with ease.
Check Network Connectivity: Ensure that all devices participating in the LAN session are connected to the same local network. Double-check the network settings, router configurations, and Wi-Fi connections to verify that all devices can communicate with each other successfully.
Disable Firewalls and Antivirus: Firewalls and antivirus software on your computer may sometimes interfere with the discovery and visibility of LAN servers. Temporarily disable these security measures and check if the LAN servers appear in the Minecraft multiplayer menu. If they do, you can adjust the firewall or antivirus settings to allow Minecraft to access the network.
Enable Network Discovery: Windows 10 has a network discovery feature that allows devices on the same network to detect each other. Ensure that network discovery is enabled on your computer by following these steps: Go to the Control Panel, select Network and Internet, then Network and Sharing Center. From there, click on Change advanced sharing settings and make sure that Network Discovery is set to "Turn on network discovery" under the Private profile section.
Update Java and Minecraft: Outdated Java or Minecraft versions may cause compatibility issues, including problems with LAN server visibility. Make sure both Java and Minecraft are up to date. Visit the official Java website to download the latest version, and check for updates within the Minecraft launcher.
Restart Minecraft and Devices: Sometimes, a simple restart of Minecraft and all devices involved in the LAN session can resolve connectivity issues. Close Minecraft, restart your computer, and power cycle your router and other devices connected to the network. Then, relaunch Minecraft and check if the LAN servers are now visible.
Use Direct Connect: If LAN servers still do not show up, you can try using the Direct Connect feature in Minecraft. Obtain the IP address of the computer hosting the LAN server and manually enter it in the Direct Connect field. To find the IP address, open the Command Prompt on the hosting computer and type "ipconfig." Look for the IPv4 Address under the Ethernet or Wi-Fi adapter section.
Consult Minecraft Support and Community: If the issue persists, it may be helpful to consult the official Minecraft support resources, such as the Minecraft website or community forums. There, you can find additional troubleshooting steps, seek advice from fellow players who have experienced similar issues, or even submit a support ticket for personalized assistance.
LAN servers not showing up in Windows 10 Minecraft can be frustrating, but with these potential solutions, players can troubleshoot and resolve the issue. By checking network connectivity, adjusting firewall settings, enabling network discovery, updating Java and Minecraft, restarting devices, utilizing direct connect, and seeking support from the Minecraft community, players can successfully join LAN servers and enjoy multiplayer gameplay with their friends and family.
Remember, each network environment may have unique configurations, so it may require a combination of these solutions or additional troubleshooting steps to resolve the issue. By staying patient and persistent, players can overcome the challenge and get back to the exciting world of multiplayer Minecraft on LAN.