How to Join a Minecraft Server on Java and Bedrock

Minecraft servers are joined with an address, but the exact steps depend on whether you use Java Edition or Bedrock Edition.

Join a server on Java Edition

Open Minecraft Java Edition and select Multiplayer from the main menu. Choose Add Server, enter a name you will recognize, and paste the Java server address into the Server Address field. Save the entry, select it from the list, and choose Join Server.

Java addresses may be a domain such as play.example.net or an address with a port such as play.example.net:25565. Use the complete value shown on the server listing.

Join a server on Bedrock Edition

Open Minecraft Bedrock Edition, select Play, and open the Servers tab. Choose Add Server, enter the server name, then enter the Bedrock address and port in their separate fields. The common Bedrock port is 19132, but a server may publish a different one.

Console editions may limit custom server entry. The available method depends on the platform and current Minecraft client, so check the platform settings before changing network configuration.

Match the supported version

If the connection reports an incompatible client, compare your game version with the version range on the listing. Update Minecraft when the server uses a newer release. Some networks support several versions through proxy software, but individual game modes may still require a specific release.

Fix common connection problems

Recheck the address for spaces or missing characters. Confirm that you copied the Java or Bedrock address intended for your edition. Restart the game after an update, disable an incompatible mod pack, and check whether the server currently appears online.

Timeouts can also be caused by a temporary route or firewall problem. Test another server to determine whether the issue affects one address or your entire connection.