How to join a Minecraft server
Adding a server by IP on Java Edition, Bedrock Edition, and consoles, plus the most common connection errors and what they mean.
Java Edition (PC and Mac)
- Copy the server address from its page on this site. It looks like
play.example.com. If a port is shown, it is written after a colon:play.example.com:25566. - Open Minecraft, click Multiplayer, then Add Server.
- Paste the address into Server Address, give it any name, and click Done.
- Select the server in the list and click Join Server.
Bedrock Edition (phone, tablet, Windows 10/11)
- Open Minecraft, tap Play, then the Servers tab, then Add Server.
- Enter the address and the port. Bedrock servers almost always use port 19132 unless the listing says otherwise.
- Save, then tap the server to join.
Consoles (Xbox, PlayStation, Switch)
Console editions only show a handful of official partner servers. To join any other server you need a workaround. The two common ones are a LAN proxy app running on a device on your home network (search for BedrockConnect), or changing your console's DNS to a BedrockConnect DNS server, which replaces the featured servers list with a menu where you can enter any address. The server's Discord will usually have step-by-step instructions for the method they recommend.
Common errors
- Can't connect to server / Connection timed out: the address or port is wrong, the server is down, or a firewall is blocking you. Check the status on the server's page here first.
- Outdated client / Outdated server: your game version does not match. The version on the server's page is the highest it supports. Many servers support a range, so check the description.
- You are not white-listed on this server: the server requires an application. See its website or Discord.
- Failed to verify username: Mojang's authentication servers are unreachable or you are not logged in. Restart the launcher.
- Unable to connect to world (Bedrock): usually the port is missing or wrong, or your network blocks the connection. Try mobile data to rule out your router.