Locating your Minecraft server IP address is the essential first step to hosting a world for friends or joining a public community. This numerical identifier, combined with a specific port, functions as the digital address for your server instance. Without this information, players cannot establish a connection to your world. The process varies slightly depending on whether you are hosting locally, using a dedicated server, or connecting to a third-party service. Understanding the different methods ensures you can quickly get your game running smoothly.
Finding Your Local IP Address
If you are hosting the server on your own computer, you need to find your local IP address. This address is only accessible within your private network and requires anyone joining to be on the same internet connection. The method to retrieve this depends on your operating system. On Windows, you utilize the command prompt, while Mac and Linux users rely on the terminal. This internal address usually begins with 192.168 or 10. and is not routable on the public internet.
Windows Users
For Windows players, the process is straightforward. You simply need to open the command prompt by searching for "cmd" in the start menu. Once the black window appears, typing ipconfig and pressing enter will display a list of network settings. Look for the line that says "IPv4 Address" under your active connection, which is typically labeled as "Wi-Fi" or "Ethernet". This string of numbers, such as 192.168.1.5, is your local server address.
Mac and Linux Users
Users of Mac or Linux systems will use the terminal to find their address. You can open the terminal through the applications folder or by using a keyboard shortcut. Typing ifconfig or ip addr will show detailed network information. You need to identify the section for your active connection, often labeled en0 or eth0 , and locate the "inet" address. This is your local IP that you will share with others on your network.
Using a Dedicated or Remote Server
Many players opt for a dedicated machine or a remote hosting provider to run their server without keeping their personal computer on constantly. In these scenarios, you do not need to find a local IP address. Instead, you manage the server through a control panel or dashboard provided by your host. These platforms often display the primary IP address required for connection directly on the main status page. If you are using a cloud service or a hosting company, the IP is usually located in the server overview section of your account portal.
Connecting Through Realms and External Services
Some players utilize the Minecraft Realms service or third-party hosting providers that simplify the technical side. With Realms, the IP address is hidden behind a user-friendly interface where you simply invite friends. However, if you are using a third-party service, they typically provide you with a unique server address upon setup. This address is often a domain name that is easier to remember than a numerical IP. Check the confirmation email or the admin panel of the service for this specific string of text and numbers that represents your server.
The Role of the Port Number
An IP address alone is not enough; it must be paired with the correct port number for the connection to succeed. The default port for Minecraft is 25565. When you share your server address with others, you usually combine the IP and the port using a colon. For example, if your IP is 123.45.67.89, the full address a player needs is 123.45.67.89:25565. If you have changed the default port in your server properties file, you must use the new number instead to establish the connection.
