Mac OS · macOS

How To Fix “Unable To Connect to Server” on Mac - Minecraft Server Error

Original source date

Answer

First, you should ensure that the server you’re trying to join is online and working correctly. To do so, open up your browser of choice and navigate to this page. Here, enter the Minecraft server IP and click on Get server status. This will allow you to preview how many users are currently playing on the server if it’s blocked, and the Minecraft version it’s running.

Check Minecraft Server Connection & Version

First, you should ensure that the server you’re trying to join is online and working correctly. To do so, open up your browser of choice and navigate to this page. Here, enter the Minecraft server IP and click on Get server status. This will allow you to preview how many users are currently playing on the server if it’s blocked, and the Minecraft version it’s running.

this page
Minecraft Server Status
Minecraft Server Status

Create New Minecraft Installation

Next, open up your Minecraft launcher and navigate to the Installations tab.

Create New Minecraft Installation
Create New Minecraft Installation

Here, select create a new installation and choose to play the same Minecraft vers…

Here, select create a new installation and choose to play the same Minecraft version as the server you’re trying to join. This will fix any potential issues related to your Minecraft version.

Change Minecraft Version
Change Minecraft Version

Test Network Connection

If the problem persists, this issue is most likely related to your network connection or apps running on your Mac. You can test your average upload and download speed and server latency using a speed testing site or application such as Speedtest.net. If you notice an unstable download speed, reduce the number of devices using the same network connection and restart your router or modem if you haven’t done this in a while.

Speedtest.net
Test Network Connection
Test Network Connection

Disable VPN Connection

Next, click on the Apple icon on the top left of your screen and select System Settings. If your settings look a bit different on your system, then update your Mac OS version.

Disable VPN Connection
Disable VPN Connection

In the Network section, proceed to disable your VPN service if you use one

In the Network section, proceed to disable your VPN service if you use one. VPNs can be very useful, but they will worsen your network connection, especially when trying to play online games. If you are looking for a reliable VPN connection, we recommend PrivadoVPN.

PrivadoVPN
System Settings > Network > VPN
System Settings > Network > VPN

Mac OS Software Update

While in your settings, navigate to the General section and click on Software Update. Download the latest Mac OS version before restarting your system. Restarting your Mac can also fix a lot of common network connection issues.

System Settings > General > Software Update
System Settings > General > Software Update

Close Network Intensive Apps

In case the server error persists, then you should proceed to end network-intensive apps and processes from running on your Mac, such as downloads or video streams.

Close Background Apps
Close Background Apps

Banned or Whitelisted Minecraft Account

Lastly, ensure that your Minecraft account is not banned or whitelisted on the server you’re trying to join. You can ask the server admin why you cannot join the server for more information.

Video walkthrough

If it does not work

  • What causes the "Unable to Connect to Server" error in Minecraft on Mac?. This error can be caused by a number of reasons, including incorrect server address, outdated game version, firewall restrictions, and network issues.
  • How do I update my Minecraft version on Mac to avoid this error?. To update your Minecraft version, open the Minecraft launcher, click on the "Launch Options" tab, and select the "Latest Release" option. Then, click on the "Save" button, and finally, click on the "Play" button to start the game.
  • Is it possible to play Minecraft with friends on a Mac if I'm facing the "Unable to Connect to Server" error?. Unfortunately, if you're facing this error, you won't be able to play with friends on a server until the issue is fixed.
  • What should I do if the steps in this article don't help me fix the "Unable to Connect to Server" error on Mac?. If the steps in this article don't help you fix the error, you can try reaching out to the Minecraft community for help, or you can contact the support team of the server you're trying to connect to. In some cases, you may also need to reinstall Minecraft on your Mac.