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If you can’t connect to your Minecraft server, check these in order: the server shows Online in the Game Panel, you use the full address including the port (for example 203.0.113.10:25565), the EULA is accepted, you’re on the whitelist if it’s on, your game version matches the server, and you’re using Java Edition (Bedrock players need GeyserMC). Most “Connection timed out” and “Connection refused” errors are one of these.

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Quick checklist

1

Is the server online?

Open the server in the Game Panel. The status must be Online and the console must show the server has finished starting. If it stopped, open Logs to see why.
2

Is the address right?

On the Console page, copy the address from the Copy address card. Paste it into Server Address in Minecraft (Multiplayer > Add Server), including the colon and port, for example 203.0.113.10:25565.
3

Is the EULA accepted?

If the console says You need to agree to the EULA, the server stops right after starting. See accept the EULA.
4

Are you on the whitelist?

“You are not white-listed on this server!” means the whitelist is on. Add the player on Players > Whitelisted. New servers on Minecraft 26.3 and newer have the whitelist on by default.
5

Does your version match?

“Incompatible client” means a version mismatch. See outdated client or server.
6

Java or Bedrock?

Your server runs Java Edition. Bedrock players (phones, consoles, Windows Bedrock) can only join with GeyserMC.

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What does each connection error mean?

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Still can’t connect?

  • Modded server? Players need the same modpack and version. Mismatched mods give errors when joining.
  • Using your own domain? If your port isn’t 25565, a plain A record isn’t enough: add an SRV record, or join with domain:port.
  • Only one player affected? Ask them to restart the launcher, try another network and turn off any VPN.
  • Still stuck? Check our status page, then open a ticket with the exact error. Click Share log on the Console page and paste the link into the ticket.

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Frequently asked questions

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Why does my Minecraft server say “Connection timed out”?

The game got no answer from the address you entered. Usually the port is missing or wrong, or the server is offline. Copy the address from the panel and try again.

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Do I need to add the port to the address?

Yes, unless your port is 25565. Copy the full address, including :port, from the Copy address card on the Console page.

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My friends can’t join but I can. Why?

Check the whitelist and bans on Players, and that your friends use the same game version and Java Edition.

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The server shows Online but nobody can join. What now?

Wait until start-up has finished in the console, then check the address. On modded servers start-up can take a few minutes.

Minecraft server guide

Every Minecraft guide in one place.

Set up your Minecraft server

How to join the first time.

Set up a whitelist

Add players to the whitelist.

Server crashing

When the server won’t stay online.

Network and subdomains

Your server’s address and port.
Reviewed by the FREAKHOSTING team on 29 October 2026. Game Panel steps were checked on our panel (Minecraft 26.1, Paper and Fabric); game and plugin details follow their official documentation. Steps may differ slightly if the game change.

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Need Extra Help?

If you encounter any issues, our support team is ready to assist:

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Last Updated: October 2026