How to Join a Minecraft Server
Complete guide for Java, Bedrock, console, and mobile — connect in minutes.
What You Need Before Joining
A Minecraft Account
EssentialYou need a paid Minecraft account (Java or Bedrock Edition) linked to a Microsoft account.
Correct Game Version
EssentialMost servers require a specific Minecraft version. Check the server listing before connecting.
Server IP Address
EssentialThe unique address of the server you want to join. Find IPs on ServerHub or the server's website.
Stable Internet Connection
ImportantA reliable internet connection is needed for smooth multiplayer gameplay.
Port Number (If Needed)
ImportantSome servers use non-default ports. Java default is 25565, Bedrock default is 19132.
Required Mods or Resource Packs
Nice to HaveSome modded servers require specific mods installed. Check server requirements first.
Choose Your Platform
Java Edition (PC, Mac, Linux)
Java Edition is the original Minecraft for PC, Mac, and Linux with the largest server selection and mod support.
- 1
Find a Server
Browse ServerHub and copy the server IP address (e.g., play.example.com)
- 2
Open Multiplayer
Launch Minecraft → Click 'Multiplayer' from the main menu
- 3
Add Server
Click 'Add Server' → Paste the IP in 'Server Address' → Click 'Done'
- 4
Connect
Select the server from your list → Click 'Join Server'
Pro Tip: Direct Connect
Use "Direct Connect" instead of "Add Server" to quickly test a server before saving it to your list. This is great for trying new servers without cluttering your server list.
Bedrock Edition (Windows 10/11)
Bedrock Edition on Windows 10/11 supports custom servers and crossplay with mobile and console players.
- 1
Open Servers Tab
Launch Minecraft → Play → Servers tab at the top
- 2
Scroll Down
Scroll past Featured Servers to find 'Add Server'
- 3
Enter Details
Add server name, IP address, and port (default: 19132)
- 4
Connect
Save and select the server to join
Default Port Matters
Bedrock Edition uses port 19132 by default, not 25565 like Java. Always check the server listing for the correct port number.
Console (Xbox, PlayStation, Switch)
Console editions run Bedrock but don't natively support custom server IPs. Here are your options.
Use Featured Servers in the built-in server browser
Officially partnered servers like Hive, CubeCraft, and Mineplex are available directly
Use BedrockConnect by changing DNS settings
Change your console DNS to connect to custom servers through a workaround
Some servers have Featured Server partnerships
Look for servers with official Bedrock Featured Server status
Use a mobile device to host a LAN proxy
Connect your console through a mobile device on the same network
Console Tip
The easiest way to play on custom servers from console is using BedrockConnect. Change your DNS to 104.238.130.180 in your console's network settings, then join any Featured Server to get redirected to a server browser.
Mobile (iOS, Android)
Minecraft on iOS and Android runs Bedrock Edition with full support for custom servers.
- 1
Go to Servers
Open Minecraft → Play → Servers tab
- 2
Add Server
Scroll down → Tap 'Add Server'
- 3
Enter Info
Fill in name, address (IP), and port (19132)
- 4
Join
Tap your server → 'Join Server'
Cross-Platform Play
Mobile players can play with Bedrock players on Windows 10/11 and console! Look for servers tagged "Crossplay" on ServerHub for the best cross-platform experience.
Java Edition vs Bedrock Edition
Choosing the right edition affects which servers you can join. Here's how they compare for multiplayer.
Advantages
- Java has the largest server selection and community
- Full mod and plugin support (Forge, Fabric, Spigot, Paper)
- More game customization and redstone precision
- Free community-made skins and resource packs
- Supports versions dating back to 1.0 for legacy servers
Considerations
- Bedrock supports crossplay between mobile, PC, and console
- Better performance and optimization on lower-end devices
- Marketplace with curated content and worlds
- Built-in Featured Servers for easy access
- Touch-friendly controls for mobile gameplay
Which Should You Choose?
If you play on PC and want the widest server selection with mod support, go with Java Edition. If you want to play with friends on different devices (phone, console, PC), choose Bedrock Edition.
Connection Troubleshooting
Having trouble connecting? Here are the most common issues and how to fix them.
Check These First
- Server IP is spelled correctly (no spaces)
- Minecraft version matches server version
- Using the correct edition (Java/Bedrock)
- Port number included if required
- Internet connection is stable
Common Issues
- Server might be temporarily offline or restarting
- Firewall or antivirus blocking the connection
- Server is whitelist-only (requires application)
- Server has reached maximum player capacity
- VPN may be interfering with the connection
Can’t connect to server
Outdated client/server
Connection timed out
You are banned
Firewall Issues?
If you keep getting "Connection Timed Out" errors, try adding Minecraft (javaw.exe) as a firewall exception. Also check if your ISP or network blocks the required ports (25565 for Java, 19132 for Bedrock).
Tips & Tricks
Beginner Tips
Copy-Paste the IP
Always copy and paste server IPs instead of typing them manually. This prevents typos that cause connection failures.
Use Direct Connect First
Test a server with 'Direct Connect' before adding it to your list. This saves time if the IP is wrong or the server is offline.
Check Server Version
Before connecting, check the server page for the required Minecraft version. Mismatched versions are the #1 connection issue.
Bookmark Your Favorites
Add servers you enjoy to your in-game list and vote for them on ServerHub to find them easily later.
Advanced Tips
Manage Multiple Versions
Use a launcher like MultiMC or Prism Launcher to manage multiple Minecraft versions, so you can connect to any server instantly.
Optimize Connection
Allocate more RAM to Minecraft (2-4GB recommended) and close background apps to reduce lag when joining busy servers.
Check Server Status
Use the ServerHub server page or mcsrvstat.us to check if a server is online before trying to connect.
Use DNS for Console
Console players can use BedrockConnect DNS to access custom servers. Set your DNS to 104.238.130.180 in network settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it free to join Minecraft servers?
Do I need to download anything extra?
What's the difference between Java and Bedrock Edition?
Can Java and Bedrock players play together?
Why does the server say I need a different version?
How do I find the best Minecraft servers to join?
What port do I use for Bedrock servers?
19132. If the server listing shows a different port number, use that instead. Java Edition uses port 25565 by default.Can I join servers on Nintendo Switch, Xbox, or PlayStation?
Why am I getting 'Connection Timed Out' errors?
Do I need a Microsoft account to play on servers?
Joining Minecraft Servers in 2026
Joining a Minecraft server is the gateway to multiplayer gaming. Whether you want to play survival with friends, compete in PvP battles, build in creative mode, or explore custom game modes like SkyBlock and Factions, you'll need to know how to connect to a server.
The process is straightforward on all platforms. Java Edition players on PC, Mac, and Linux have the largest selection of servers with full mod support. Bedrock Edition players on Windows 10/11, mobile, and console can join servers with crossplay support, meaning you can play with friends on different devices.
ServerHub makes finding and joining servers easy. Every server listing includes the IP address with a one-click copy button, real-time player counts, version requirements, and community reviews. Simply find a server, copy the IP, and follow the steps for your platform above.
Ready to Play?
Browse thousands of servers and find your next adventure. Filter by gamemode, version, and player count.