How to Join a Minecraft Server

First, find a server on YourMCBrowser

1. Open the Minecraft server list. You can browse without creating a YourMCBrowser account.
2. Choose Java, Bedrock or Crossplay, then pick a gamemode such as Survival, Skyblock or PvP. Use the search box if you already know a name or address.
3. Compare live status and player counts. Open a server profile to read its description, supported version and community rules. A successful status check does not guarantee that a community suits every player.
4. Copy the address for your edition. For Crossplay listings, check whether Java and Bedrock have separate addresses or ports.

Player counts and availability can change after a check. If a listing requires a whitelist, mods or a resource pack, follow the owner's instructions before connecting.

Still choosing a community? The Minecraft server finding guide explains how the search, edition and playstyle filters work.

Compare Survival servers for building and exploration, SMP communities for a shared world, Lifesteal servers for their combat and heart-loss rules, or Skyblock servers for island progression. Read each profile before assuming that two servers with the same label play alike.

Want help making a shortlist? CraftyCompass uses your edition and playstyle choices to suggest listed communities. Open a suggested profile for its rules and actual connection details.

Join with Minecraft: Java Edition

Use these steps for Java Edition on Windows, macOS or Linux:

1. Start Minecraft: Java Edition and open Multiplayer. Read any online-play notice.
2. Choose Add Server to keep the connection in your list, or Direct Connection to try it once.
3. Paste the Java server address. Include a port when the profile provides one, for example play.example.com:25565. An example address is not a real listing.
4. Save the entry if needed, select it and choose Join Server.

If Minecraft reports an incompatible version, use a game version the server supports. See the official Java multiplayer instructions for the current menus.

Join with Bedrock on Windows, Android or iPhone

1. Start Minecraft: Bedrock Edition and open Play, then Servers.
2. Select Add Server. Give the entry a name you will recognise.
3. Enter the Bedrock address and put the port in its separate field. Use the listing's port rather than assuming the default.
4. Save the server or choose the option to add it and play. Button wording can vary with the game version.

On a phone or tablet, these are the same connection details as Bedrock on Windows. Make sure you copied the Bedrock address, not a Java-only address. Read Minecraft Help's Bedrock server instructions for platform-specific details.

What about Xbox, PlayStation and Nintendo Switch?

The standard console server menu offers featured servers rather than a field for arbitrary server addresses. A Bedrock or Crossplay label does not by itself mean you can add that server on a console.

Use the multiplayer options actually available on your device, such as featured servers, an invited Realm or a friend's world. Console online play may require your platform's subscription. Check Minecraft's multiplayer requirements. This guide does not ask you to change DNS settings or install an unofficial connector.

Which server edition should you choose?

If the server will not connect

• Check the address for extra spaces and confirm the port and edition.
• Check the profile's latest status or use the Minecraft server status checker. A server may be restarting or under maintenance.
• Match a supported game version and install only the mods the owner requires.
• Check multiplayer permissions, especially for a child account, and any whitelist requirement.
• Ask the server owner about a changed address or connection restriction.

Never enter your Microsoft password, email verification code or account token into a server-address field. Read a community's rules before sharing personal information or buying anything.

Ready to find your next world?

Return to the directory or compare Minecraft server listings by edition, gamemode and recorded activity. The profile links explain what each community offers and how to connect.