This guide covers Minecraft: Java Edition. Check the current server details in this guide for your chosen server’s version and setup. Ask staff if a required detail is not listed.
Match the server release
Minecraft’s official multiplayer guide says the client and server versions need to match. A snapshot or preview can differ from the release used by a community server. Use the version advertised by staff, even if your launcher offers a newer one. Official multiplayer guide.
- Read the error on the server entry or connection screen and write down the version it requests.
- In the launcher, select a Java Edition installation for that release, then start it. If you do not have an appropriate installation, create a separate one rather than repurposing a modded profile.
- Return to Multiplayer and retry your saved server entry. Avoid opening a newer single-player world in an older game version during this check.
Confirm the address
Copy the address for your chosen regional server from the current server details in this guide. Do not include https:// or a website page path in the game’s server-address field.
Read the next error literally
A whitelist or access message needs staff attention; changing game versions is not a way around it. A timeout is also different from an explicit version mismatch. Note whether you can see the server in the list, whether it responds, and when the connection stops.
For a clean comparison, use the normal client before investigating optional client mods. See our Paper and client-mod guide. If you remain stuck, open a private support ticket with your player name, version, chosen server and exact error.
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