The best way to play Minecraft Bedrock Edition with friends online is through Minecraft Realms or by setting up a Minecraft server.

For the Java Edition, cross-play with the Bedrock is not officially supported. However, tools like GeyserMC allow the Bedrock players to connect to the Java servers easily.

Like Bedrock, mods, realms and skins can be used in the Java version of Minecraft, and the servers are always packed with people looking to play alongside you.

Want to make a Minecraft server so you can play with your friends? It's easier than you'd think, thanks to numerous options that allow tons of flexibility.