GeyserMC vs Floodgate: What Each Plugin Does

GeyserMC and Floodgate appear together in many crossplay guides, but they are not the same plugin. Understanding the difference makes setup easier and helps you explain connection steps to your group.

The short version: GeyserMC lets Bedrock connect to a Java server; Floodgate makes Bedrock login smoother without requiring Java accounts.

What GeyserMC does

GeyserMC is the bridge between Minecraft Bedrock and a Java server. It translates Bedrock network traffic so the Java server can understand it. That lets mobile, console, and Windows Bedrock players join the same world as Java players.

On a friend server, GeyserMC is usually installed as a Paper or Spigot plugin. More advanced setups exist, but plugin mode is the simplest starting point.

What Floodgate does

Floodgate handles Bedrock player identity. Without Floodgate, Bedrock players may need to authenticate with Java accounts. With Floodgate, Bedrock players can join using a Java-compatible identity generated by the system.

That makes joining easier, but it also means you should check names, permissions, and security. Some servers use a prefix for Bedrock usernames to avoid conflicts with Java names.

When you need both

For a private server with Java and Bedrock friends, installing both is usually best:

GeyserMC for the Bedrock connection;
Floodgate for easier Bedrock login;
Paper for plugin support;
a correct Bedrock port for players to join.

If every Bedrock player also owns Java, you can test without Floodgate. For most mixed groups, using both avoids unnecessary friction.

Common problems

If Bedrock cannot connect, check GeyserMC and the Bedrock port first. If Bedrock connects but names, login, or permissions behave strangely, check Floodgate and permissions plugins.

Test with one Bedrock player before opening the server to everyone. If you use LuckPerms, AuthMe, or account plugins, confirm that Bedrock players are handled correctly.