Adding servers to Minecraft on Xbox isn’t as straightforward as it is on PC, but it’s absolutely doable once you understand the workarounds. The Xbox version runs Bedrock Edition, which has built-in server support—but Microsoft restricts which servers appear in the official list. Here’s how to break past those limitations and connect to any Minecraft server you want.
Quick Answer: How to Add a Server on Minecraft Xbox
To add a server on Minecraft Xbox, you need to use DNS redirection since Xbox doesn’t allow direct IP input. Change your Xbox DNS settings to a custom DNS service like BedrockConnect (104.238.130.180), restart Minecraft, and select any featured server. This redirects you to a custom server list where you can enter any server address you want to join.
Why Xbox Makes Adding Servers Difficult
Microsoft locks down the Bedrock Edition server list on Xbox consoles to maintain quality control and security. You’ll see the same handful of featured servers—The Hive, Mineplex, Lifeboat, and a few others—but no option to manually add server addresses like you can on PC or mobile.
This restriction frustrates players who want to join private servers, realm alternatives, or custom multiplayer worlds. The good news? The DNS redirection method bypasses this limitation without jailbreaking your console or violating terms of service.
The DNS Redirection Method (Most Reliable)
This approach tricks your Xbox into thinking you’re connecting to an official featured server, but actually redirects you to a custom server menu.
Step 1: Configure Your Xbox Network Settings
- Press the Xbox button and navigate to Settings
- Select General → Network Settings
- Choose Advanced Settings
- Select DNS Settings and switch from Automatic to Manual
- Enter the Primary DNS: 104.238.130.180
- Enter the Secondary DNS: 1.1.1.1 (Cloudflare’s public DNS as backup)
- Press B to save and return to the dashboard
Step 2: Launch Minecraft and Connect
Open Minecraft Bedrock Edition and navigate to the Servers tab. Click on any of the featured servers—it doesn’t matter which one. Instead of loading that server, you’ll see a custom menu powered by BedrockConnect.
From this menu, you can:
- Enter any server IP address directly
- Browse a list of popular community servers
- Save favorite servers for quick access
- Connect to private servers and realms alternatives
Step 3: Enter Your Server Address
Type in the server IP address and port number (format: play.example.com:19132). Most Bedrock servers use port 19132 by default, but check with your server host if you’re unsure.
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Alternative Method: Using Realm Codes
If DNS redirection feels too technical, you can join servers through Realms invite codes—though this only works if the server owner has set up a Realm or uses a service that generates Realm-compatible invites.
How to Use Realm Codes
- Get the Realm invite code from the server owner
- Open Minecraft and select Play
- Navigate to the Friends tab
- Click Join Realm
- Enter the invite code and confirm
This method is simpler but limits you to servers that support Realm integration. Most custom community servers don’t offer this option.
Troubleshooting Common Connection Issues
DNS Changes Not Working
If the BedrockConnect menu doesn’t appear after changing DNS settings, try these fixes:
- Restart your Xbox completely—hold the power button for 10 seconds, not just quick restart
- Clear the MAC address in Network Settings → Advanced Settings → Alternate MAC Address → Clear
- Test the DNS connection under Network Settings to verify it’s active
- Check if BedrockConnect is online—occasionally the service goes down for maintenance
Can’t Connect to Specific Servers
If BedrockConnect loads but you can’t join your desired server:
- Verify the server IP and port are correct (typos are common)
- Confirm the server runs Bedrock Edition, not Java Edition—these versions aren’t compatible
- Check if the server has Xbox authentication enabled (required for console players)
- Ensure your Xbox Live account has appropriate multiplayer permissions
Connection Timeouts
Persistent timeout errors usually mean:
- The server is offline or restarting
- Your NAT type is set to Strict (change to Open or Moderate in router settings)
- The server has reached maximum player capacity
- Geographic distance creates too much latency
Understanding Bedrock Edition Server Compatibility
Not every Minecraft server works with Xbox. The console exclusively runs Bedrock Edition, which uses different protocols than Java Edition servers. Before trying to connect, confirm:
- The server explicitly supports Bedrock Edition or Pocket Edition
- Xbox authentication is enabled (most servers have this on by default)
- The server version matches your game version—outdated servers won’t connect
- Cross-platform play is enabled if the server hosts both Java and Bedrock players
Many popular servers like Hypixel run Java Edition only, which means Xbox players can’t access them regardless of connection method. Always verify server compatibility before troubleshooting connection issues.
Security Considerations with Custom DNS
Changing your DNS settings is safe when using reputable services like BedrockConnect, but understand what you’re doing. DNS servers translate domain names to IP addresses—essentially directing your internet traffic.
Using a third-party DNS means:
- Your connection routes through their servers
- They can theoretically log which domains you access
- If the service goes down, you’ll need to revert DNS settings
BedrockConnect is open-source and community-trusted, but you can always switch back to automatic DNS settings when you’re done playing. To revert: Settings → Network Settings → Advanced Settings → DNS Settings → Automatic.
Best Practices for Xbox Server Play
Save your favorite servers: The BedrockConnect interface lets you bookmark servers so you don’t need to retype IP addresses every session.
Test connection quality first: Before diving into gameplay, check the server’s ping and player count. High latency makes PvP and fast-paced minigames frustrating on console.
Use wired connections: WiFi works, but ethernet cables reduce lag and connection drops—especially important for competitive servers.
Keep game updated: Server compatibility breaks when your Minecraft version doesn’t match the server’s. Enable automatic updates or check manually before connecting.
Join communities with Xbox support: Some servers optimize specifically for console players with adjusted controls and UI. Look for “Xbox-friendly” or “Console-optimized” in server descriptions.
If you’re setting up your own server, learn how to create a server optimized for cross-platform play that welcomes both PC and console players.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add servers without changing DNS settings?
No, Xbox Bedrock Edition doesn’t provide a native way to input custom server addresses. DNS redirection or Realm codes are your only options without using unauthorized software modifications.
Will this method get me banned from Xbox Live?
No. Changing DNS settings is a standard network configuration option that doesn’t violate Xbox terms of service. You’re not modifying game files or using unauthorized software—just redirecting network traffic through a different DNS provider.
Do I need Xbox Live Gold to join custom servers?
Yes, multiplayer functionality on Xbox requires an active Xbox Live Gold subscription or Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. This applies to all online Minecraft play, including custom servers and Realms.
Why do some servers kick me immediately after joining?
Most likely the server requires Xbox authentication and your account isn’t recognized, or the server has geographic restrictions. Some servers also whitelist specific players—you’ll need to apply for access on their website or Discord.
Can I play on Java Edition servers with this method?
No. Java Edition and Bedrock Edition use completely different codebases and networking protocols. No workaround exists to connect Xbox (Bedrock) to Java servers. The server must specifically support Bedrock Edition for Xbox compatibility.
Adding custom servers to Minecraft Xbox takes an extra step compared to PC, but the DNS method opens up thousands of community servers beyond Microsoft’s curated list. Set it up once, and you’ll have access to the full multiplayer ecosystem Bedrock Edition offers.
