Minecraft server IP address and port: everything explained

To join a Minecraft server you need its address (people often say "the IP"). Here is what it looks like, where the port goes, and how to find your own server's address.

What does a server address look like?

• A domain name, the most common: play.myserver.com. Easy to remember, and it does not change if the server moves.
• A numeric IP address: 51.75.12.34. It works too, but changes if the server changes machine.

The addresses of the most voted servers are gathered on the Minecraft server IPs page, to copy in one click.

What about the port?

The port is the server's "door number" on its machine. By default:

• Java: port 25565. If the server uses it, no need to type it.
• Bedrock: port 19132, in a separate field in the game.

If the server uses another port, on Java it goes after the address with a colon: play.myserver.com:25570. On Bedrock, type it in the "Port" field. Many servers use a DNS (SRV) record so that their address works without a port, even if it is not 25565.

Where do I enter the address in Minecraft?

• Java: Multiplayer → Add Server → "Server Address".
• Bedrock: Play → Servers tab → Add Server → "Server Address" and "Port".

Step by step: how to join a Minecraft server.

Finding your own server's address

• At a host: the address (and port) is shown in the control panel. Many hosts also give a free subdomain.
• On your computer, to play at home: friends on the same Wi-Fi use your local IP (ipconfig on Windows, like 192.168.1.20).
• On your computer, for friends far away: you need your public IP and to open the port on your router.

Careful: giving your router's public IP to strangers reveals your location and exposes you to attacks (DDoS). For a public server, use a host and a domain name.

Getting your server's address known

Once your server is ready, list it for free: its address is shown on its page with the live status, and players copy it in one click.