How to Set Up a Crossplay Server?
To set up a crossplay server, you need a dedicated server with root access, the required game server software, compatible game versions, the appropriate crossplay plugin or configuration, correctly configured TCP/UDP ports, firewall access, and a public IP address. The exact process depends on the game. For Minecraft Java & Bedrock, Geyser bridges the two editions, while ARK: Survival Evolved uses its own server-side crossplay settings.
Introduction
A game night can lose its fun pretty quickly when half the players are stuck on different platforms. One player is on PC, another is on Xbox, and someone else is on mobile, yet everyone wants to join the same world. That is where a crossplay server comes in. Instead of splitting players by platform, a properly configured dedicated server can bring supported players into one multiplayer environment.
Setting one up is not always as simple as switching on a single option, though. Each game handles cross-platform play differently, and Minecraft Java & Bedrock, ARK Survival Evolved, and other multiplayer titles can require different tools, ports, and server settings. This guide explains how to set up a crossplay server on a dedicated server, with practical steps for Minecraft and ARK, plus the configuration details that can make or break a connection.
What is a Crossplay Server?
A crossplay server allows players using different supported platforms or game editions to join the same multiplayer environment. For example, a Minecraft server can be configured so Java and Bedrock players can play together, provided the required software and versions are compatible. The main purpose is simple: players do not have to be separated just because they use different devices.
It is worth clearing up a few terms that are often used interchangeably:
- Crossplay means players on different platforms can play the same game together.
- Cross-platform generally describes software or games that are available across multiple platforms, but it does not always mean those platforms can play together.
- Cross-progression is different again. It allows game progress, such as characters, items, or achievements, to carry over between supported platforms. A game can offer crossplay without offering cross-progression.
For gaming communities, a dedicated server can make crossplay easier to manage because the server owner has greater control over the game environment, server settings, networking, plugins, and resources.
Can You Enable Crossplay on Any Dedicated Server?
No. A dedicated server alone does not make a game crossplay compatible. Crossplay first depends on whether the game and its server software support connections between the platforms in question. Some games provide built-in crossplay, while others require additional software, plugins, or specific server settings.
If you’re unsure whether your gaming workload requires dedicated infrastructure, see Do I Need a Dedicated Server? for the key signs to consider.
The server still plays an important role. Root or administrator access may be needed to install crossplay tools and modify configuration files. The required TCP or UDP ports must also be accessible, while the game versions on the server and clients need to remain compatible. Platform restrictions can apply as well, so crossplay between two platforms is not guaranteed simply because both versions of the game exist.
In simple terms, the dedicated server provides the infrastructure; the game and its server software determine whether crossplay is possible.
What Do You Need for a Cross-Platform Game Server Setup?
Setting up crossplay starts with having a server that gives enough control over the game and its network settings. The exact requirements vary by game, but a dedicated server should provide the resources and access needed to install server software, configure crossplay tools and open the required ports.
| Requirement | Why It Matters |
| Dedicated resources | Helps maintain stable gameplay when multiple players are connected |
| Root access | Lets the administrator install software, plugins and server dependencies |
| Public IP address | Gives players a reachable address for joining the server |
| Firewall control | Allows the required game and crossplay ports to accept connections |
| Game server software | Provides the environment needed to run the multiplayer game |
| Compatible versions | Keeps the server, plugins and player clients compatible |
| Sufficient CPU and RAM | Provides resources for players, game logic, mods and plugins |
For a growing gaming community, Cantech Dedicated Servers provide the underlying resources and server access needed to configure a crossplay environment according to the requirements of the chosen game.
How to Set Up a Minecraft Java and Bedrock Crossplay Server
Minecraft Java and Bedrock Edition use different network protocols, so Bedrock players cannot normally join a standard Java server. Geyser bridges this gap, allowing both editions to connect to the same Java server when the setup is configured correctly.
Can Minecraft Java and Bedrock Play Together?
Yes. Geyser allows Bedrock players to connect to a Minecraft Java server by translating the communication between the two editions. The Java server remains the main server where the game world, players, and gameplay are managed.
What Is GeyserMC, and How Does It Enable Minecraft Crossplay?
GeyserMC is a bridge between Minecraft Bedrock and Java Edition. It translates Bedrock network traffic so Bedrock players can connect to a Java server. Geyser can be installed as a plugin on supported server software such as Paper and Spigot.
How to Install the Geyser Minecraft Plugin on a Dedicated Server
The basic installation for a Paper or Spigot server is:
- Install and run the Minecraft Java server.
- Install the appropriate Geyser plugin.
- Place it in the plugins folder of the server.
- Restart the server.
- Open the created Geyser configuration file.
- Set up the Bedrock listener and port.
- Restart the server and try to connect to a Bedrock server.
Use a Geyser version that matches the Minecraft version. You might also need ViaVersion for older versions of the server.
How to Configure the Geyser Bedrock Port
Geyser listens on a Bedrock listener port, the default being 19132. The port can be changed if necessary, depending on the server environment.
Since Bedrock connections are based on UDP, the port selected must be open in the firewall and available for Geyser. Different ports are allowed for Java and Bedrock connections. For more information on how firewall rules help protect your server, see Why Is a Firewall Important for Your Dedicated Server?
Do You Need Floodgate for Minecraft Crossplay?
No. Geyser allows for the Java and Bedrock connection, and Floodgate takes care of the Bedrock authentication. Floodgate allows Bedrock players to join a Java server without having to create a Java Edition account.
How Do Bedrock Players Join a Java Minecraft Server?
After Geyser is started and the Bedrock port is opened, Bedrock players join via the server’s public IP address and the Bedrock port the player has set. The server’s normal Java address and port are used for Java players. If players are not able to connect, ensure that Geyser is running and the necessary UDP port is open in the firewall.
How to Enable Crossplay on ARK Survival Evolved
Crossplay is supported in certain combinations of platforms, but not all versions of ARK Survival Evolved are crossplay enabled. For instance, Studio Wildcard has enabled crossplay between Steam and Epic Games versions on compatible dedicated servers. Depending on the server version and the platforms connected, some options may not be available, so the combination of supported platforms and versions should be checked before configuring the server.
Does ARK Survival Evolved Support Crossplay?
Yes, but crossplay will vary depending on the platforms. If using a dedicated server, the server configuration needs to be the same as the platforms players are using. For instance, Steam and Epic Games crossplay are supported on ARK dedicated servers, and other platform combinations are subject to different rules.
How to Enable ARK Crossplay on a Dedicated Server
The simple procedure is
- Install the ARK Survival Evolved dedicated server.
- Open the server’s start-up parameters.
- If supported, add the -crossplay parameter.
- Restart the dedicated server.
- Verify that the server is listed in the appropriate server list.
- Test the connection from the supported platforms.
The -crossplay parameter is reserved for crossplay on ARK dedicated servers that support it. Server owners should also verify if mods or other start-up options impact cross-platform connections prior to inviting players.
Which Games Support Dedicated Server Crossplay?
Crossplay support varies considerably between games. Some titles provide it through their dedicated server settings, while others require a bridge, plugin or specific server configuration.
| Game | Crossplay Method | Dedicated Server Setup |
| Minecraft | Geyser and Floodgate | Plugin and configuration |
| ARK Survival Evolved | Game-specific crossplay setting | Startup parameter and server configuration |
| Palworld | Built-in crossplay support | Dedicated server configuration |
| 7 Days to Die | Depends on supported version and platforms | Version and server configuration |
Minecraft requires a bridge such as Geyser when connecting Bedrock players to a Java server. ARK Survival Evolved uses its own server configuration for supported crossplay combinations. Palworld currently provides crossplay support for its supported platforms, with the available platform combinations controlled through server settings.
Crossplay support is not permanent or identical across every platform. Game updates, server versions, platform policies, and changes to dedicated server software can alter which players are able to connect. Always check the current requirements for the specific game before configuring a crossplay server.
Why is My Crossplay Server Not Working?
Crossplay problems usually come down to a small configuration issue. Before changing the entire server setup, check the game version, crossplay software, connection port and firewall rules.
Bedrock Players Cannot Connect to Minecraft Server
If Java players can join but Bedrock players cannot, check the Geyser configuration first. Make sure Geyser is running, the Bedrock port is correct and the port is open for UDP traffic. Also verify the public IP address and confirm that the Minecraft and Geyser versions are compatible.
Geyser Is Installed but Players Still Cannot Join
An installed plugin does not always mean it is configured correctly. Check that the Geyser build supports the Minecraft server version and that the server software is supported. Review the Geyser configuration and server console for errors, and make sure another service is not already using the configured Bedrock port.
ARK Crossplay Server Is Not Showing
Start by checking whether the required crossplay startup parameter is present and correctly written. Then confirm that the server and player versions are compatible with the intended crossplay combination. If the configuration looks correct, check the server’s public accessibility, firewall rules, and network settings.
Why Does Crossplay Stop Working After a Game Update?
A game update can change the protocol or server requirements that crossplay tools depend on. Minecraft servers using Geyser should therefore keep Geyser updated and use a version that supports the installed Minecraft version. If the game itself has changed its multiplayer or platform requirements, the dedicated server configuration may also need to be updated.
What Makes a Good Dedicated Server for Crossplay Gaming?
A crossplay server needs more than basic hosting. It should provide enough processing power for the game, sufficient RAM for the expected player count, fast storage for server files, and enough administrative control to install and configure the required software. These factors are also important when you choose a budget dedicated server for a gaming workload.
For crossplay gaming, look for:
- Dedicated CPU resources for consistent game performance
- Sufficient RAM for players, mods, and server software
- NVMe or SSD storage for faster file operations
- Root access for complete server management
- Full operating system control
- Reliable network connectivity
- A public IPv4 address
- Firewall configuration access
- DDoS protection
- Low latency for the target player base
- Room to host multiple game servers when needed
- Flexible resources for future growth
For players and communities in India, choosing a server location close to the primary player base can also help reduce network latency and provide a smoother multiplayer experience.
Why Choose Cantech Dedicated Servers for Crossplay Gaming?
Cantech Dedicated Servers give game server owners the control needed to manage their own server environment. With dedicated resources, root access, and control over the operating system and network configuration, administrators can install the required game software, configure crossplay tools, and manage the server without relying on shared hosting restrictions.
For dedicated game server hosting in India, Cantech can provide the infrastructure needed to build and manage a crossplay gaming environment from the ground up.
Crossplay Server Setup Checklist
Before opening the server to players, verify that the game server is installed correctly, the intended crossplay method is supported, and all required plugins or configuration options are in place. Check that the game versions match, the required TCP or UDP ports are configured, firewall rules allow connections, and the public IP is reachable.
Test the server from each supported platform before sharing it with the wider community. Also set up regular backups, and keep the game server, plugins, and crossplay software updated so future game or security updates don’t leave the server running an outdated configuration.
Conclusion
Crossplay takes the barrier out of multiplayer gaming. With the right server software, compatible game versions, and properly configured ports, players on supported platforms can share the same game world instead of being divided by the device they use.
The dedicated server is the foundation behind that setup. It gives server owners the resources and administrative control to install crossplay tools, manage configurations, and keep the gaming environment running smoothly.
If you are looking for dedicated game server hosting in India, Cantech Dedicated servers offer the control and infrastructure needed to build a crossplay server around your chosen game. Bring the whole community into the same game. Set up your crossplay server with Cantech.
FAQs
Can Java and Bedrock players join the same Minecraft server?
Yes. When Geyser is set to bridge the two editions, Java and Bedrock players can play on the same Minecraft server. The java server is still the primary server, and Geyser is used to communicate with Bedrock players. If the server requires Bedrock players to log in with a Java Edition account, Floodgate can be installed.
What port does a Minecraft crossplay server use?
By default, Minecraft Bedrock connections via Geyser will use UDP port 19132. If necessary, the port can be modified in the Geyser configuration. For Bedrock players to connect, the chosen UDP port needs to be open in the server’s firewall and accessible from the Internet.
Why can’t Bedrock players connect to my Minecraft server?
If Bedrock players cannot connect, check that Geyser is running, the correct Bedrock port is configured, and UDP traffic is allowed through the firewall. Also verify the server’s public IP and make sure the installed Geyser version supports the Minecraft server version.
Do Minecraft mods and plugins work with crossplay?
Not all Minecraft Java mods and plugins work perfectly with Bedrock players. While Geyser supports linking the editions, there are some differences in gameplay and features between Java and Bedrock. Before enabling important plugins, mods, and server features on a CrossPlay server, check their compatibility with Geyser.
Can a Minecraft crossplay server work after a Minecraft update?
Yes, but you may need to update the crossplay software as well. Before updating the server, make sure that the installed Geyser build is compatible with the new version of Minecraft. Players using Bedrock may not be able to connect to the server or experience unexpected behavior if running incompatible versions.
