Finding your Minecraft server's IP address depends on whether you're hosting it locally or on a remote server. Let's break down both scenarios, answering common questions along the way.
How to Find Your Minecraft Server IP Address (Local Host)?
If you're hosting your Minecraft server on your own computer (locally), the IP address is typically 127.0.0.1 or localhost. This is a special IP address that always refers to your own machine. You won't need to find it through any external means; it's built into your network.
What if I want to connect from another computer on my network?
For connecting from other devices on the same local network, you'll need your computer's local IP address. This isn't the same as 127.0.0.1. Here's how to find it:
- Windows: Open the command prompt (search for "cmd") and type
ipconfig. Look for "IPv4 Address" under your network adapter. - macOS: Open Terminal (Applications > Utilities > Terminal) and type
ipconfig getifaddr en0. (Replaceen0with the correct interface if necessary—you might need to useen1or another designation.) - Linux: The command varies depending on your distribution. Common commands include
ip addr showorifconfig. Look for an address under your active network interface (e.g., eth0, wlan0).
Remember to port forward the Minecraft server port (usually 25565) on your router to allow connections from outside your local network. Without port forwarding, only devices on your local network can connect.
How to Find Your Minecraft Server IP Address (Remote Host)?
If you're using a remote hosting service (like Aternos, Apex Hosting, etc.), the IP address will be provided by the hosting provider. This is usually found in your server control panel or the email confirmation after server creation.
Where can I find my server IP on my hosting provider's panel?
The location of this information varies between providers. Generally, look for sections titled "Server Details," "IP Address," "Server Info," or something similar. The specific instructions should be available within your chosen hosting service's documentation or support resources.
I've forgotten my server IP; what should I do?
If you can't find it in your control panel, contact your hosting provider's support. They'll be able to provide the correct IP address for your server.
What is a Minecraft Server Port, and Why is it Important?
The Minecraft server port (typically 25565) is the communication channel your server uses. It specifies which port on your computer the server listens on for incoming connections. You'll need this information along with the IP address to connect to your server. Port forwarding is crucial for external access if your server isn't local.
How Do I Use the IP Address to Connect to My Minecraft Server?
Once you have the IP address and port number, you can connect using the Minecraft client:
- Open the Minecraft launcher.
- Click "Multiplayer."
- Click "Add Server."
- Enter the server's IP address and port number (e.g.,
your_ip_address:25565). - Click "Done."
By following these steps, you'll be able to successfully connect to your Minecraft server, whether it's hosted locally or remotely. Remember to check your hosting provider's documentation if you are using a remote server.
