How to Join a Minecraft Server on Java or Bedrock

Joining a Minecraft server is simple once you know which edition and version it supports. A server listing should tell you the address, edition, version and any special port you need.

Before you connect

• Check whether the listing supports Java Edition, Bedrock Edition or both.
• Use a Minecraft version that the server supports. If the listing shows a range, choose a version inside that range.
• Copy the address exactly. A hostname such as play.example.net is different from an address with a custom port such as play.example.net:25566.

Java Edition

Open Minecraft: Java Edition and choose Multiplayer. Select Add Server, enter a name for the server, and paste the server address into the Server Address field. Save it, select the new entry and choose Join Server.

If you only want to test the connection once, Direct Connection lets you enter an address without saving it. You still need a compatible version and an account allowed to play multiplayer.

Bedrock Edition

Open the Servers tab and choose Add Server or Add Server from the server list. Enter the server name, address and port in their separate fields. Bedrock crossplay servers often use a port that is different from the Java port, so use the port shown by the listing owner.

If the connection fails

First check the edition, version, address and port. An offline status or a server that is restarting can also cause a timeout. If the error says you are not whitelisted or banned, contact that server's staff. Avoid sharing your Minecraft password with a server owner; a legitimate listing only needs your in-game address and, for voting rewards, your player name.

Browse the HypixMC Minecraft server list to compare communities, or open a Lifesteal server category if you already know the gamemode you want.