Joining a Minecraft server takes three steps: get the address, launch a matching game version and add the server to your list. Detailed platform guides: Java on PC and phone and consoles.
Know your edition
- Java Edition — the PC version (Windows, macOS, Linux), started from a launcher.
- Bedrock Edition — phones and tablets (often called PE), consoles and the Microsoft Store version for Windows.
Java servers do not accept Bedrock players and vice versa, except Java + Bedrock crossplay servers (Geyser), which list two addresses. See mobile servers and crossplay servers.
1. Copy the IP and port
Every server page has a Copy IP button. mc.example.com uses the default port; mc.example.com:25566 includes a custom one. Default ports: 25565 for Java, 19132 for Bedrock. Not sure the address works? Check it with the status checker.
2. Pick the version
The server card shows its version range, e.g. 1.16.5–1.21.11. On PC choose the version in your launcher (Installations → New installation). On a phone you have the installed version only — most Bedrock and crossplay servers want the latest one, so update the game first.
3. Add the server
- Java: Multiplayer → Add Server → paste the address → Done → Join Server.
- Bedrock: Play → Servers tab → Add Server at the bottom → name, address, port (19132 by default) → Save.
Consoles only show featured servers; see the Bedrock guide for workarounds.
4. Register
Cracked-friendly servers ask for /register password password on the first visit and /login password later. Use a new password.
When it fails
- Outdated client / server — change the game version.
- Connection refused — typo, Bedrock address used in Java (or the other way round), or the server is down.
- Failed to verify username — the server needs a premium account.
- Not whitelisted — apply on the server's website or Discord.