VPN for Minecraft: Secure servers and safe LAN gaming with Meshnet

Best speed results overall (over 817 Mbps) with only 3ms latency overhead.
Free Meshnet feature: Connect up to 60 devices to your LAN.
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A person playing video games on their computer with NordVPN protection on.

A person playing Minecraft on their console.

What is Minecraft?

Minecraft is one of the world’s most popular sandbox games, available across platforms. Minecraft Java Edition runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux, while the Bedrock Edition is available on Windows, Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, and mobile (iOS/ Android), with cross-platform multiplayer support.

Minecraft features an online multiplayer mode, an active community of modders, and complete Microsoft account integration, whether you want to play from different devices, chat with friends, or use Microsoft's other services.

Minecraft gameplay modes and online features

Common security risks for Minecraft players

Why do you need a VPN for Minecraft?

A Minecraft game fragment on a VPN-protected laptop screen.

Server hosts are prime targets for DDoS attacks, which can ruin your gaming experience. If there is an attack, a VPN server absorbs the blow, letting your game continue.

Play Minecraft safely with NordVPN’s free Meshnet feature

A VPN can help you browse more securely, change your IP address and virtual location, and defend against DDoS attacks. But with NordVPN’s free Meshnet feature, you can do much more, you can even host a private Minecraft server.

A diagram explaining how NordVPN’s Meshnet feature works.

What is Meshnet and how does it work?

Meshnet is a NordVPN feature that creates an encrypted network from the devices you trust. It works just like a local area network (LAN) — once connected, your buddies can enjoy your private and secure Minecraft world as though they were sitting next to you. Best of all, it’s free for all NordVPN users.

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Explore private worlds from anywhere

Easy setup, free sessions

Even a complete newbie could use Meshnet. The feature is already built into the NordVPN app, and you don’t even need an active NordVPN subscription.

Link up to 60 devices

The more, the merrier at your Minecraft party. Meshnet lets you link up to 60 devices, so you can host large multiplayer sessions. For example, you can connect 10 of your own devices with 50 devices belonging to other NordVPN users to form a single secure LAN.

Two people using Meshnet to play video games on their computers.

Secure playtime

Host privately

With Meshnet, you don’t have to tinker with your network settings. Run private Minecraft servers on your devices without accidentally messing up your network.

Avoid DDoS attacks

Keep your IP address protected from salty strangers who might target you with a DDoS attack. You can play uninterrupted on private servers even if there’s a DDoS campaign against the game’s official servers.

Freedom to play safely

No VPN bandwidth limits

Play multiplayer Minecraft safely as much as you want, whenever you want. NordVPN’s Meshnet feature connects you and your friends directly without bandwidth limits.

Beyond Minecraft, beyond Meshnet

Finished your gaming session? Explore the internet beyond Minecraft with NordVPN. Get a new IP address, avoid censorship, and enjoy improved online privacy with the fastest¹ VPN on the market.

A person playing video games on their computer.

Meshnet vs. Hamachi

Hamachi is still common among Minecraft players, but it can become expensive with larger groups of players. Here’s how free Meshnet feature compares to Hamachi (LogMeIn):

Meshnet (NordVPN)	Hamachi (LogMeIn)
Works for free without a NordVPN subscription.	Offers a limited free tier (up to 5 devices).
Comes built into NordVPN.	Requires a separate application.
Supports up to 60 devices.	Supports up to 5 devices on one network.
WireGuard and AES-256 encryption.	Only AES-256 encryption.

How to set up a VPN for Minecraft

Use a VPN app

Download NordVPN and install the app. Meshnet is built into NordVPN on Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Turn on Meshnet

Enable Meshnet and invite other NordVPN users with their unique Nord name or IP address.

Run Minecraft

Launch the game, select “Open to LAN,” and share your LAN address with your friends. For more help, check out the instructions on how to create a Minecraft server or watch the video below.

‌Watch Tutorial

Protect your Minecraft server with a VPN

If you host a server, gaming security and privacy should be a priority. Here’s how a VPN can help.

Server hosting security considerations

Running a public Minecraft server exposes your IP address to everyone who connects. Popular servers are especially vulnerable to high player counts and automated attacks, which can negatively impact performance for everyone. Not to mention that a public Minecraft server can reveal network details and compromise player privacy.

An illustration of a world map that shows a person’s location and an encrypted IP address.

DDoS protection for server hosts

A VPN secures your real IP address, while your server benefits from anti-DDoS measures. For stronger protection and scalability, place your Minecraft server on a VPS and front it with a VPN tunnel or a proxy layer so only the VPN/proxy IP is exposed. You can also use specialized DDoS‑mitigation proxies to absorb volumetric attacks before they reach your host.

To keep your server protected, update the server and plugins regularly, use a non‑default port with firewall rules, enforce strong admin credentials, and make regular backups.

An illustration of a DNS server with a padlock icon.

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Minecraft account and device security

Minecraft account and device security matters as much as the server itself because attackers often attempt to steal your credentials through phishing or keyloggers. Here’s how to protect yourself.

Use strong passwords

Create strong, unique passwords for your accounts. Or better yet, use a password manager so you only have to remember one password.

Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)

As an extra security step, enable 2FA on your Microsoft account and use authenticator apps.

Beware of phishing attempts

Be wary of scams targeting Minecraft and Microsoft accounts. Treat every DM as a potential phishing attack and avoid offers to get free Minecoins.

Download mods and resource packs safely

Only download Minecraft mods and resource packs from official sources and use a malware scanner to catch malware before it reaches your device.

Be cautious on public servers

Never share personal information or contact details on a public Minecraft server. Scammers use various social engineering techniques, such as creating a sense of urgency, to trick you into sharing personal information.

Keep the game and system updated

Keep software up to date to reduce vulnerabilities and crashes. Make sure you’re running the latest Minecraft version, apply OS patches whenever they become available, and if you’re using the Java version, keep Java updated as well.

Secure your gaming device

Use anti-malware software to protect your device against threats in real time and keep your firewall enabled to block unwanted connections.

An illustration of app icons being scanned by NordVPN's next-gen antivirus.

Safe modding and resource pack downloads

Modding Minecraft can be great fun, but make sure to always stick to trusted sources. Whenever in doubt, check the community reputation by reading recent comments and update logs. But remember that even a reputable community doesn’t guarantee complete safety. Scan every download before running installers and make regular backups of your worlds, just to be extra safe.

What if your Minecraft account has been compromised?

Why choose NordVPN for Minecraft?

If you’re looking for the fastest gaming VPN out there, try NordVPN. It’s fast and reliable, and it offers speed-optimized servers around the world.

Explore NordVPN features

Meshnet for LAN gaming

With free Meshnet, you don’t need services like Hamachi. Connect up to 60 devices and enjoy playing Minecraft with your friends. It’s already built into NordVPN.

IP protection

Prevent IP-based attacks, such as DDoS. With NordVPN, you can protect your IP and secure your internet activity from third parties.

High speeds and unlimited VPN bandwidth

Enjoy a high-speed VPN without bandwidth limits. No interruptions or speed throttling based on activity — just the best gaming experience.

VPN servers

Over 9,500 performance-optimized VPN servers ensure that there is always one nearby, offering low ping and the best speeds.

A password manager

Protect your Microsoft account with NordPass. Create unique passwords, secure server credentials, and save payment information.

Better security with a bundle deal

Level up your digital security. Get the NordPass password manager to manage your credentials securely and track your personal data on the dark web with Data Breach Scanner.

Encryption	ChaCha20, AES-256, post-quantum encryption
Covered locations	224
VPN servers	9,500+
Speciality servers	Obfuscated, Double VPN, Onion over VPN
Devices	Up to 10 simultaneous connections from any devices
VPN bandwidth	Unlimited
Leak prevention	DNS and IP

Start using a VPN for gaming

Download the VPN app directly to your Windows PC or MacBook.

Set up VPN on a router and enjoy an encrypted connection while you play on:

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One VPN for all your favorite games

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