How to Connect to Minecraft Private Servers
Follow these steps to get started playing on Minecraft private servers. Whether you are new or returning, this guide will walk you through the process.
Launch Minecraft Java Edition
Open the Minecraft Launcher and make sure you are using the correct game version that matches the server (check the server listing for the required version).
Go to Multiplayer
From the main menu, click "Multiplayer" and then "Add Server" or "Direct Connect".
Enter the server address
Type the server IP address (e.g., play.servername.com) and optionally the port if it is not the default 25565. Click "Done" or "Join Server".
Join and play
Select the server from your list and click "Join Server." Some servers may require you to register with /register or link a Discord account.
Configuration File
The key configuration file you need to modify is: server.properties
Getting the Client
You need the Java Edition of Minecraft purchased from minecraft.net. Some servers support Bedrock Edition via plugins like GeyserMC, but Java Edition is the standard for multiplayer servers.
Available Minecraft Versions
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