Minecraft Bedrock server hosting: how to host for Bedrock players
How to run a server Bedrock players (phone, Windows, console) can join: a Java server with Geyser so Java and Bedrock players share one world.
Bedrock Edition is the version of Minecraft on phones, Windows (the Microsoft Store version), Xbox, PlayStation and Switch. There are two ways to host a server for those players.
Two ways to host for Bedrock #
| Java server + Geyser | Bedrock Dedicated Server | |
|---|---|---|
| Who can join | Java and Bedrock players together | Bedrock players only |
| Plugins | Yes (Paper/Purpur plugins) | Add-ons only |
| On ESN | Yes: Paper or Purpur with Geyser and Floodgate | Not offered as a plan type |
ESN sets up Minecraft Java servers. To let Bedrock players join, you add Geyser (which translates Bedrock to Java) and Floodgate (which lets Bedrock players join without a Java account). That's how the ESN SMP runs.
Set it up #
- Buy a Minecraft plan on the plans page and choose Paper (or Purpur). Use at least 1 GB of RAM; 2 GB or more is comfortable with Geyser and a few players.
- Start the server once, accept the EULA and wait for Done.
- Download Geyser and Floodgate for Spigot/Paper from geysermc.org and upload them to the plugins folder.
- Restart, then point Geyser at your server's port as described in the Bedrock crossplay guide.
- Bedrock players on phone or Windows add the server with the IP and Geyser's port.
Console players #
Xbox, PlayStation and Switch can't type a server address by default. Common workarounds are a friend bot that consoles add as a friend (the ESN SMP uses one; see join from console) or a DNS-based server list redirect. Phone and Windows players can add servers directly.
Good to know #
- Some Java features look a little different on Bedrock (for example certain inventories or custom items without a resource pack mapping).
- Bedrock names get a prefix (a dot by default) from Floodgate, which matters for the whitelist and op.
- Keep Geyser updated with your server version.
FAQ #
Can I host a Minecraft Bedrock server on ESN? #
ESN sets up Java servers. Add Geyser and Floodgate and Bedrock players can join the same server alongside Java players.
Can Java and Bedrock players play together? #
Yes, on a Java server running Geyser and Floodgate.
How do console players join a crossplay server? #
Consoles can't enter an address by default, so servers use a friend bot or a DNS redirect. The ESN SMP uses a friend bot.
How much RAM for a crossplay server? #
At least 1 GB; 2 GB or more is comfortable with Geyser and a few players.
Still stuck? Use the live chat on the panel or ask in the ESN Systems Discord. Last updated October 31, 2026.