Skip to main content

​
Step 1: Launch Minecraft Java Edition

  1. Open the official Minecraft Launcher on your PC or laptop.
  2. Log in with your Microsoft account.
  3. Click Play to launch the version your server runs (you can choose a specific version from the launcher).
download.png

​
Step 2: Find Your Server IP and Port

  1. Log in to your HostByte Game Panel.
  2. Click your Minecraft server to open its details.
  3. Locate the Server Address (IP and port), e.g. 123.45.67.89:25565.
➡️ Note: If you’re using a custom domain (e.g. play.yourserver.net), you can use that instead of the IP. 43 Copy IP Pn

​
Step 3: Add the Server in Minecraft

  1. From the main menu, click Multiplayer.
  2. Click Add Server.
  3. Enter any Server Name you like.
  4. Paste your Server Address (IP:Port or domain).
  5. Click Done. 44 MC Server Pn

​
Step 4: Join Your Server

  1. Your server will appear in the list.
  2. Select it and click Join Server.
  3. You should load into your world if the server is online and the version matches.

​
⚠️ Common Connection Issues

​
“Can’t Connect to Server”

  • Double-check the IP/Port or your custom domain.
  • Confirm the server is Online in the Game Panel.
  • DNS changes can take time—wait up to 30 minutes if you just set a new domain record.

​
“Outdated Client” or “Outdated Server”

  • Your Minecraft version doesn’t match the server.
  • In the Launcher, select the correct version profile and click Play.

​
“Connection Timed Out”

  • Check your internet connection and restart your router if needed.
  • Temporarily disable local firewall/antivirus to test (then re-enable).
  • Try again later if there’s scheduled maintenance (see status link below).

​
“Incompatible Mods”

  • Check to make sure the server and client mods are the same.
  • Make sure all mods are on the same version.
  • In some cases this could happen if you have client side mods installed on the server.

​
Security Tips

  • Share your IP/domain only with people you trust.
  • Use LuckPerms and EssentialsX to manage ranks and commands safely.
  • Keep your server jar and plugins up to date.

​
Getting Help

  • Knowledge Base: Browse more Java guides.
  • Support Tickets: Join our discord server below to open a support ticket.
  • Discord: Join our community discord here: HostByte Discord.
  • Status Page: Check maintenance/outages: status.hostbyte.net.