"Unable to connect to world" and other server errors in Minecraft Bedrock
Unable to connect to world, outdated client, a Microsoft account that blocks multiplayer, disconnects: the server errors in Minecraft Bedrock and how to fix them.
By the Linesia team · Updated · 3 min read
Most connection errors in Minecraft Bedrock have a simple cause. Find your message below and go through the steps in order: we listed the fixes from most likely to rarest.
"Unable to connect to world"
This is the most common message, and it just means your game couldn't reach the server. In order:
- The server may be closed. Check its Discord: maintenance or a restart is usually announced.
- Check the address and the port. One wrong letter, an extra space at the end, or the port stuck to the address is enough. On Bedrock, the address and the port go in two separate fields.
- Close the game completely and reopen it. On a phone, close the app from the app switcher, not just by going back to the home screen.
- Switch networks. Try mobile data instead of Wi-Fi. If that works, your router or your network is blocking it. School, dorm and office networks often block Minecraft.
- Turn off your VPN if you use one.
- Restart your router. Unplug it for thirty seconds. It fixes more problems than you'd think.
"Outdated client" or "Outdated server"
Your game and the server don't have the same version of Minecraft.
- Outdated client: your game is behind. Update it from your device's store (Microsoft Store, Google Play, App Store, or the game's page on console).
- Outdated server: your game is ahead. This happens on Minecraft update day, when the server hasn't taken the update yet. Wait a few hours, servers catch up quickly.
On console, a Minecraft update sometimes lands a few hours after the other platforms. If your friend on PC can play and you can't, that's often why.
"You cannot play online multiplayer because of how your Microsoft account is set up"
Your Microsoft account has multiplayer blocked in its privacy settings. This is almost always the case with a child account (under 18 for Microsoft), created with strict settings by default.
To change it, you need the parent's account:
- The parent opens the Xbox Family Settings app on their phone, or the Microsoft Family website, and picks the child's account.
- In the privacy settings, they allow join multiplayer games and cross-network play (playing with people outside of Xbox).
- Restart Minecraft.
On an adult account, these settings are on the Xbox website, under Privacy & online safety. Set both options to Allow.
"Disconnected from server" or "Connection timed out"
You connect, then get kicked out after a few seconds or in the middle of a game. The connection between you and the server is unstable.
- On Wi-Fi, move closer to the router, or switch to 5 GHz if your router offers it.
- Pause any downloads on the same network (console updates, 4K videos).
- On a phone, turn off battery saver: it cuts the network for apps in the background, Minecraft included.
If everyone gets disconnected at the same time, the server restarted. Wait a minute.
Kicked or banned from the server
That one isn't technical: the server removed you. The message usually gives the reason. If you think it's a mistake, contact the server's support. On Linesia, that's a ticket on Discord.
On console, the friend's game doesn't show up
If you're using an account to add as a friend (like JoinLinesia for Linesia):
- check that you're signed in to your Microsoft account in Minecraft, not just your PlayStation or Nintendo account;
- give the account a minute to add you back;
- check the join multiplayer games setting explained above.
Frequently asked questions
Why can I play single player but not on a server?
Single player doesn't go through the internet. A server does. So the problem comes from your network, your Microsoft account, or your online subscription on console (Nintendo Switch Online, PlayStation Plus or Game Pass).
The server works for my friends but not for me, why?
In order: your game version, your network (try mobile data), then your Microsoft account settings. If nothing works, ask the server's support with a screenshot of the error message.
How do I know if a server is online?
It shows up in your list with a player count and a ping. If it stays on "Locating server", it's closed or your network can't reach it. Its Discord will tell you.
