How to Join a Minecraft Server

Guide Java Bedrock

Quick answer: Java: Multiplayer > Add Server, paste the server address and join. Bedrock: Play > Servers tab, pick a featured server or scroll down to Add Server. Both players need the same edition - Java and Bedrock cannot join each other's servers.

What you need

The server address (IP or domain, sometimes with a port)
The same edition and roughly the same version as the server
An online account (servers verify it)

Step by step

Java: click Multiplayer > Add Server, name it and paste the address (like play.example.com). Click Done, then join from the list.
If the server uses a custom port, add it after a colon: example.com:25565.
Bedrock: Play > Servers tab shows featured servers - tap one to join. For others, scroll to the bottom and tap Add Server to enter name, address and port.
Match versions: most servers support a range of versions, but the launcher profile should sit inside that range or you get an 'outdated' error.
LAN worlds: a world opened to LAN appears automatically in the Multiplayer list of every device on the same network - no address needed.
Trouble joining? Check the address spelling, the server's online status, and that you are not banned; 'Connection refused' usually means the server is down or the port is wrong.

Java vs Bedrock

Java and Bedrock are separate ecosystems - a Java address will not work on Bedrock and vice versa, unless the server runs a special proxy.

Versions: Big networks (Hypixel and friends) run on Java; Bedrock's featured servers cover console and mobile. Version ranges per server are listed on their sites.

Frequently asked questions

Is joining servers free?

Yes - joining any server is free. Some sell cosmetic ranks, but you never need them to play.

Why does it say 'outdated client'?

Your game version is older or newer than what the server allows. Switch your launcher installation to a version the server supports.