How to Join a Minecraft Server on Java and Bedrock (Step by Step)

Joining a Minecraft server takes about a minute once you know where to click. This guide shows you how to join a server on Java Edition and on Bedrock Edition, explains what the address and port mean, and fixes the most common reasons a server will not let you in.

Before you start: check three things

Most joining problems come from one of these, so check them first:

1. Edition. Minecraft has two editions, Java and Bedrock, and they are different games. A Java server will not accept a Bedrock player, unless the server has added extra software that allows both.
2. Version. The server page should tell you which Minecraft version it runs. Some servers accept a range of versions, others only one.
3. Address. This is the text you paste into Minecraft, such as play.example.com. Some Bedrock servers also give a port number.

You can find all three on a server's listing page. On TopRealms each Minecraft listing has a Copy address button, so you do not need to type it.

How to join a server on Java Edition

Java Edition runs on Windows, macOS and Linux. To join a server:

1. Open Minecraft and choose the right version in the launcher if the server needs a specific one.
2. Click Multiplayer. The first time, Minecraft may show a safety notice. Read it and continue.
3. Click Add Server.
4. Type a name for the server. This is only for you, so it can be anything.
5. Paste the Server Address, for example play.example.com. If the server uses a port other than the default, add it after a colon, like play.example.com:25570.
6. Click Done. The server now appears in your list.
7. Select it and click Join Server.

You can also use Direct Connection from the Multiplayer screen to join once without saving the server.

How to join a server on Bedrock Edition

Bedrock Edition runs on Windows, phones and tablets, and consoles. On Windows and mobile:

1. Open Minecraft and click Play.
2. Open the Servers tab, then scroll down and choose Add Server.
3. Enter a Server Name.
4. Enter the Server Address.
5. Enter the Port. The usual Bedrock port is 19132, but the server will tell you if it uses a different one.
6. Save, then select the server and join.

On consoles, Minecraft usually does not let you add a server by address. You can join the servers the game features, and some servers publish a workaround on their own website or Discord. Follow the instructions of the server you want to join and be careful with anything that asks for your account details.

What the address and port mean

• Address: the name of the computer that runs the server. It is either a domain name (play.example.com) or an IP address (123.45.67.89).
• Port: a number that tells your computer which program to talk to. Java servers use 25565 by default, so most of the time you can leave it out. Bedrock uses 19132 by default.

If a listing shows an address with a colon and a number, such as play.example.com:25570, then 25570 is the port. For Bedrock, type the port into the separate Port box instead.

Join with a modpack or resource pack

Some servers need more than the base game:

• Modded servers need the same modpack on your computer. The server page should link to it and tell you which version to install. Installing it usually means using a mod launcher.
• Resource packs change how the game looks. Some servers offer them automatically when you join. If a pack is optional, you can say no.

Only download mods and packs from places the server clearly names, and never from a link sent to you in a private message.

Fix common problems

"Outdated client" or "Outdated server". Your game version does not match the server. Change the version in the launcher, or look for a server that supports your version.

"Can't connect to server" or "Connection timed out". The address or port may be wrong, the server may be offline or the server may be blocking you. Check the spelling, check that the server is online on its listing page or Discord, and try again in a few minutes.

"You are not whitelisted on this server". The server only lets approved players in. Ask on the server's Discord or website how to apply.

"You are banned from this server". A moderator removed you. Read the message, and if you think it was a mistake, use the server's appeal process.

"Failed to verify username" or "Invalid session". Restart the launcher, log in again and try once more. If the problem continues, your account may need to sign in again.

The server is very laggy. Distance and a crowded server both cause lag. Look for servers hosted close to where you live and ask other players if lag happens at certain times.

Stay safe on any server

• Never share your account password with anyone, including staff. Real staff never need it.
• Do not click links in chat from people you do not know.
• Be careful with free items or ranks that need you to log in on another website.
• Read the rules, and ask in chat or on Discord if you are not sure.

Not sure which server to join?

Take a look at our player's checklist for choosing a Minecraft server, or learn about the different types of Minecraft servers. Then browse the top Minecraft servers this month and pick one that fits your style.

Frequently asked questions

How do I join a Minecraft server with an IP address?

Open Multiplayer, choose Add Server and paste the IP address in the Server Address box. On Bedrock, use the Servers tab, choose Add Server and enter the address and port.

Can Java and Bedrock players join the same server?

Only if the server supports both editions with extra software. The listing or the server's Discord will say so. Otherwise you need to use the edition the server was made for.

What is the default Minecraft server port?

Java servers use port 25565 and Bedrock servers use port 19132. You normally only need to type a port when the server uses a different one.

Why can't I join a Minecraft server?

The most common reasons are a different game version, a wrong address or port, a whitelist, a ban or the server being offline. Check the server page for the exact version and address.

Is it free to join a Minecraft server?

Most servers are free to join. Many offer optional ranks or cosmetics for sale to help pay for hosting. You never need to pay to try a server.