What a domain name does for your Minecraft server

A domain name lets players join your server by typing something like play.yourserver.com instead of a long string of numbers (your server's IP address). The domain points to your server's actual location on the internet, so players see a readable address in their launcher.

You need three things in place before this works: a domain name you own (purchased from a registrar like Namecheap or GoDaddy), a Minecraft server running somewhere (either on your own computer or rented from a hosting company), and access to your domain's DNS settings. The process itself takes about 15 minutes once you have all three.

Key Takeaways

  • A domain name points to your server's IP address through DNS records, specifically an A record or SRV record depending on your setup.
  • You control DNS settings through your domain registrar's website, not through Minecraft or your server host.
  • Most players use the standard port 25565, but if your server runs on a different port, you need an SRV record instead of a straightforward A record.
  • After you add the DNS record, wait 24 to 48 hours for the change to spread across the internet before testing the connection.
  • You can test whether the domain points correctly by using a DNS lookup tool or trying to join the server in Minecraft.

Finding your server's IP address and port number

Before you touch your domain settings, you need to know exactly where your server lives on the internet. If you rent server space from a company like Aternos, Nitrado, or Shockbyte, they give you this information in your control panel — look for a section labeled "Server Address", "IP Address", or "Connection Details". Write down both the IP address (a series of numbers like 192.168.1.1) and the port number (usually 25565, but sometimes different).

If you are running the server on your own computer at home, your situation is more complicated. Your home internet connection has a public IP address that changes periodically, so a domain name pointing to it will break when your internet provider assigns you a new one. Most people in this situation either pay for a static IP from their internet provider, use a dynamic DNS service that updates automatically, or switch to rented server hosting. Check your router's settings or contact your internet provider to find your current public IP address.

Logging into your domain registrar's DNS settings

Go to the website where you bought your domain name. Log in with your account credentials. Look for a section called "DNS", "DNS Management", "Name Servers", or "Advanced Settings" — the exact name varies by registrar. You are looking for a place where you can add or edit DNS records.

If you cannot find it, search the registrar's help documentation for "how to edit DNS records" or "how to add an A record". Most registrars have this information in their support section. You should see a list of existing records (there are usually a few already there for email and other services). Do not delete or change anything that is already there unless you know what it does.

Adding an A record for the standard port 25565

If your server runs on port 25565 (the default Minecraft port), you need to add an A record. This is the simpler option. Click the button to add a new record, then fill in these fields:

  • Type: A
  • Name or Host: Enter what you want players to type. If you want them to use play.yourserver.com, type play. If you want them to use just yourserver.com, leave this blank or type @.
  • Value or Points To: Paste your server's IP address here.
  • TTL: Leave this at the default (usually 3600 or "Automatic").

Click Save. The record is now created, but it is not active everywhere yet. DNS changes take time to spread across the internet — usually between 24 and 48 hours, though sometimes faster.

Adding an SRV record for non-standard ports

If your server runs on a port other than 25565, you need an SRV record instead of an A record. This tells Minecraft clients exactly which port to connect to. The process is similar but requires more fields:

  • Type: SRV
  • Name or Service: Type _minecraft._tcp.play (replace "play" with whatever subdomain you want, or use _minecraft._tcp if you want the domain root).
  • Priority: 0
  • Weight: 0
  • Port: Enter your server's port number.
  • Target or Points To: Enter your server's IP address, followed by a period (for example, 192.168.1.1.).

Some registrars combine Priority and Weight into a single field or label them differently. If you are unsure, check your registrar's documentation for "SRV record" — they usually have a template or example. Click Save when you are done.

Testing the connection after DNS updates

Wait at least a few hours before testing, though 24 hours is safer. Then open Minecraft Java Edition, click "Multiplayer", and click "Add Server". In the "Server Address" field, type the domain name you just set up (for example, play.yourserver.com). Click "Done", then try to join.

If it does not work when ready, the DNS change may not have spread to your location yet. Try again in a few hours. If it still does not work after 48 hours, use a free DNS lookup tool like MXToolbox or Google's DNS checker to verify that your domain points to the correct IP address. Type your domain name into the tool and look for the A record or SRV record you created — it should show your server's IP address.

If the DNS lookup shows the correct IP but Minecraft still will not connect, the problem is likely with your server itself, not the domain. Check that your server is actually running, that the port is open and not blocked by a firewall, and that you entered the IP address correctly in the DNS record.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to do anything in Minecraft or on my server to make the domain work?

No. The domain connection happens entirely through DNS, which is separate from Minecraft. Your server does not need any special configuration. Once the DNS record points to your server's IP address, Minecraft clients will find it automatically.

What is the difference between an A record and an SRV record?

An A record points a domain name to an IP address. An SRV record does the same thing but also specifies a port number. Use an A record if your server runs on port 25565 (the default). Use an SRV record if it runs on any other port.

How long does it take for the domain to start working?

DNS changes usually take 24 to 48 hours to spread worldwide, though some locations update faster. You can test sooner by using a DNS lookup tool to see if your registrar's servers have the new record. If they do, it is just a matter of time before it reaches your location.

Can I use a subdomain like play.example.com instead of example.com?

Yes. When you add the DNS record, enter the subdomain in the "Name" or "Host" field. For play.example.com, enter play. For mc.example.com, enter mc. Players will then type that full address into Minecraft.

What if my server's IP address changes?

You need to update the DNS record with the new IP address. Log back into your registrar, find the A or SRV record you created, and change the IP address field. The update usually takes a few hours to spread. If your IP changes frequently, consider switching to a static IP, a dynamic DNS service, or rented server hosting with a stable address.