Windows 10 Minecraft LAN Troubles: Why Can't I Find Servers?
28th Jan, 2022
Verify Network Connectivity:
The first step in troubleshooting LAN server detection issues is to ensure that your Windows 10 device is connected to the same network as the server hosting the Minecraft world. Check your network connection settings, restart your router or modem if necessary, and verify that both devices are connected to the same network.
Enable Network Discovery and File Sharing:
LAN server detection relies on network discovery and file sharing settings on your Windows 10 device. Make sure that network discovery is turned on and file and printer sharing is enabled. To do this, navigate to the "Network and Sharing Center" in the Control Panel, select "Change advanced sharing settings," and ensure that network discovery and file sharing options are enabled.
Disable Firewall or Adjust Firewall Settings:
Firewall settings on your Windows 10 device may sometimes block LAN server detection. Temporarily disable the firewall and check if you can find the LAN server. If disabling the firewall resolves the issue, you can adjust the firewall settings to allow Minecraft through. Create a firewall rule that permits incoming and outgoing connections for Minecraft or add Minecraft to the list of allowed apps in the Windows Defender Firewall settings.
Check Anti-Virus Software:
Anti-virus software can also interfere with LAN server detection. Temporarily disable the anti-virus software or add exceptions for Minecraft to ensure that it doesn't block network connections. Consult the documentation or support resources for your specific anti-virus software to learn how to add exceptions or temporarily disable the software.
Update Minecraft and Windows 10:
Ensure that both Minecraft and your Windows 10 operating system are up to date. Outdated versions of Minecraft or Windows 10 may have compatibility issues that prevent LAN server detection. Check for updates through the Microsoft Store for Minecraft updates and Windows Update for Windows 10 updates.
Restart Minecraft and Reconnect:
Sometimes, LAN server detection issues can be resolved by simply restarting Minecraft. Close Minecraft completely, reopen the game, and try to find LAN servers again. Additionally, you can restart both the server hosting the Minecraft world and your Windows 10 device to refresh the network connections.
Use Direct Connect:
If you still can't find LAN servers using the automatic detection method, you can try connecting directly to the server using the server's IP address. Obtain the server's IP address from the host or server settings and enter it in the "Direct Connect" option in Minecraft's multiplayer menu.
