Quick Summary
The "Failed to connect to the server" error in Minecraft indicates that your game client is unable to establish a connection with the Minecraft server you are trying to join. This can be due to a variety of network and server-side issues.
Common Causes
- Incorrect Server Address: The server address (IP address or domain name) you entered might be incorrect or misspelled. Even a small typo can prevent you from connecting.
- Server is Offline: The Minecraft server you are trying to join might be temporarily offline due to maintenance, updates, or unexpected crashes.
- Firewall Blocking Connection: Your computer's firewall or your router's firewall might be blocking Minecraft's connection to the server.
- Network Connectivity Issues: Problems with your internet connection, such as a weak Wi-Fi signal, a disconnected Ethernet cable, or issues with your internet service provider (ISP), can prevent you from connecting.
- Outdated Minecraft Version: Your Minecraft client might be running an outdated version that is incompatible with the server. Servers often require a specific Minecraft version.
- Server Full or Whitelist Enabled: The server might be full (reached its player capacity) or it might have a whitelist enabled, and you are not on the whitelist.
- Corrupted Minecraft Files: Corrupted Minecraft files, especially configuration or resource pack files, can sometimes interfere with the connection process.
- Conflicting Mods: If you are using mods, some of them might be conflicting with each other or with the server, causing connection problems.
Step-by-Step Fixes
Method 1: Verify Server Address
Step 1: Double-check the server address (IP address or domain name) you entered. Ensure there are no typos or extra spaces.
Step 2: If you received the address from a friend or website, verify that it is still correct. Server addresses can change.
Step 3: Try connecting using both the domain name and the IP address if you have both, this may isolate a DNS issue.
Method 2: Check Server Status
Step 1: Contact the server administrator or check the server's website/Discord server to see if the server is online and running.
Step 2: Inquire about any planned maintenance or updates that might be causing downtime.
Method 3: Check Your Internet Connection
Step 1: Make sure you are connected to the internet. Try browsing the web to confirm.
Step 2: If you are using Wi-Fi, try moving closer to the router or connecting with an Ethernet cable.
Step 3: Restart your router and modem. Power them off, wait 30 seconds, and then power them back on.
Method 4: Update Minecraft
Step 1: Open the Minecraft Launcher.
Step 2: Ensure that you have selected the correct profile with the correct Minecraft version required by the server.
Step 3: If an update is available, the launcher will prompt you to download and install it before launching the game.
Method 5: Configure Firewall Settings
Step 1: Open your firewall settings (Windows Firewall or your third-party firewall software).
Step 2: Ensure that Minecraft (both Java and the Minecraft Launcher) is allowed through the firewall.
Step 3: You might need to add new rules specifically for Minecraft if they don't exist.
Method 6: Disable Conflicting Mods
Step 1: If you are using mods, try disabling them one by one or in groups to see if any of them are causing the connection problem.
Step 2: Start Minecraft without any mods enabled to see if the issue persists. If not, it means a mod is the problem.
Step 3: Update your mods to the latest versions, as outdated mods can sometimes cause conflicts.
Method 7: Flush DNS Cache
Step 1: Open Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (macOS/Linux).
Step 2: Type ipconfig /flushdns (Windows) or sudo dscacheutil -flushcache; sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder (macOS) and press Enter.
Step 3: Restart your computer.
Method 8: Check Server Whitelist
Step 1: If the server has a whitelist enabled, contact the server administrator and ask to be added to the whitelist.
Step 2: Provide the administrator with your Minecraft username.