Quick answer: To let Bedrock players join your Java server, install Geyser (a proxy that translates between Bedrock and Java) and Floodgate (which lets Bedrock players log in without a Java account). Drop both in your /plugins folder, restart, and Bedrock players can connect to your Java server’s IP on the Bedrock port.
Crossplay is one of the most requested features for any Minecraft community — it lets your friends on phones, consoles, and Windows 10/11 Bedrock play together with Java players on the same world. GeyserMC makes it possible. Here’s how it works and how to set it up.
What Geyser and Floodgate Do
- Geyser is a translator/proxy that “sits between” a Bedrock client and a Java server, converting the two editions’ protocols so Bedrock Edition players can join a Java Edition server.
- Floodgate is a companion plugin that lets Xbox-authenticated Bedrock players join without needing a Java (Microsoft/Java) account. Without Floodgate, Bedrock players would need a linked Java account to connect.
In short: Geyser handles the connection, Floodgate handles the login. Most servers run both.
How to Set Up Crossplay
- Use a Bukkit-family server. Geyser installs as a plugin on Spigot, Paper, BungeeCord or Velocity. (It can also run as a standalone proxy if you can’t add plugins.)
- Install Geyser. Download Geyser-Spigot (or the build for your platform) and put it in
/plugins. - Install Floodgate. Add the Floodgate plugin alongside Geyser so Bedrock players don’t need Java accounts.
- Restart the server. Geyser generates its
config.yml; the defaults work for most setups. - Connect on Bedrock. Bedrock players add your server using your server IP and the Bedrock port (Geyser listens on UDP 19132 by default).
Important Notes
- Bedrock uses a different port. Java runs on TCP 25565; Geyser adds a Bedrock listener on UDP 19132. Make sure that port is open on your host.
- Floodgate usernames get a prefix. By default Bedrock players appear with a
.prefix so their names don’t collide with Java players — configurable in Floodgate’s config. - Not every mod/plugin is compatible. Geyser translates vanilla behaviour well, but heavily custom content may not render perfectly for Bedrock clients.
With Geyser and Floodgate running, your Java server becomes a true crossplay server. If you want a dedicated Bedrock or crossplay Minecraft server, a host with the right ports open makes setup painless — see the rest of our best plugins too.
FAQ
Do Bedrock players need a Java account to join?
Not if you install Floodgate — it lets Xbox-authenticated Bedrock players join without a separate Java account. Without Floodgate, they’d need a linked Java account.
Can Geyser run without a plugin?
Yes. Geyser can run as a standalone proxy in front of your server, though installing it as a plugin on Spigot/Paper is the simplest option for most people.
What port does Geyser use?
Geyser listens for Bedrock connections on UDP port 19132 by default, separate from the Java port 25565.
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