How to fix 'you cannot play on realms': Minecraft

14 Ways to Fix ‘Unknown Host’ Minecraft server (2024)

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Last updated on August 30th, 2024 at 02:11 pm

The ‘Unknown Host’ error in Minecraft usually occurs when the game is unable to connect to a server due to a problem with the server address, your internet connection, or DNS settings.

Here’s how you can troubleshoot and fix the issue.

How to Fix Unknown Host Minecraft

 

1. Check the Server Address

  • Double-check the IP address or domain name of the server you are trying to connect to. Make sure there are no typos, and ensure the address is correct.
  • If you are using a domain name, try using the IP address directly instead.

2. Test Your Internet Connection:

  • Ping the server: Use the command prompt or terminal to ping the server’s IP address. If you receive a response, your connection is working.
  • Check other websites: Try accessing other websites to see if your internet connection is functioning properly.

3. Update Minecraft and Java:

  • Minecraft updates: Ensure you have the latest version of Minecraft installed. You can also try to reinstall Minecraft (make sure to back up anything you need)
  • Java updates: Outdated Java can sometimes cause connection issues. Download and install the latest Java version from Oracle’s website.

4. Check Firewall Settings:

  • Minecraft exceptions: Make sure your firewall allows Minecraft to connect to the internet. Add Minecraft to your firewall’s exceptions list.
  • Temporary disable: If you’re still having trouble, temporarily disable your firewall to see if it’s blocking the connection.

5. Flush DNS Cache

Sometimes, DNS issues can cause the ‘Unknown Host’ error. You can flush the DNS cache to resolve this:

  • On Windows:
  1. Open the Command Prompt as an administrator.
  2. Type ipconfig /flushdns and press Enter.
  • On macOS:
  1. Open Terminal.
  2. Type sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder and press Enter.
  • On Linux:
  1. Open Terminal.
  2. Type sudo systemctl restart NetworkManager and press Enter.

6. Change DNS Server

Changing your DNS server to a more reliable one like Google DNS or OpenDNS can help:

  • Google DNS: 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4
  • OpenDNS: 208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220

You can change DNS settings in your network configuration:

  • On Windows: Go to Network and Sharing Center > Change adapter settings > Right-click your connection > Properties > IPv4 > Use the following DNS server addresses.
  • On macOS: Go to System Preferences > Network > Select your connection > Advanced > DNS > Add the DNS server addresses.

7. Firewall and Antivirus

  • Sometimes, your firewall or antivirus software may block Minecraft from accessing the server.
  • Temporarily disable your firewall or antivirus to see if it resolves the issue. If it does, add Minecraft and Java to the exceptions list in your firewall or antivirus software.

8. Check Server Status

  • Verify that the server you are trying to connect to is online and not undergoing maintenance. You can often check the server’s status on its website or a server list site.

9. Try a Different Network

  • If possible, try connecting to the Minecraft server from a different network. This can help determine if the issue is related to your network or ISP.

10. Enter the IP Address of the Server

To fix the ‘Unknown Host’ error, manually enter the server’s IP address instead of using the domain name.

Avoid copying and pasting to prevent accidental spaces or typos.

Carefully input the IP address to ensure a direct connection to the server. This simple method often resolves the issue effectively.

11. Use a Functional Server

Whenever you attempt to join an arbitrary server and set an erroneous IP Address, users might encounter this Unknown Host error.

Join only a server that really is consistent with your particular version of Minecraft. If you don’t, you’ll be unable to tackle this issue.

12. Renew Ones Custom Domain Name

This issue might really crop up more frequently than you would imagine. Even if you’re only creating a custom domain name for your own server, this may happen.

Whenever this occurs, the outcome would be that users won’t be allowed to utilize or even establish their domain name.

In each and every scenario, what it would signify is that the domain name has lapsed or has gone into its redemption period.

If you really want to retain it, the best action you could do is to renew it as quickly as possible.

13. Utilize Localhost

In unusual situations, it might really be feasible that users can’t really access their personal server. Therefore, if you are receiving the terrible “unknown host” error when attempting to log in, this is what to do next.

Attempt “localhost,” which you’ll discover in your IP slots, in this example.

On top of that, it is also of paramount essential that you are administering the server on the very same PC which you utilize to run Minecraft.

14. Try to notify Support Team

If you’ve tried everything else without success, reach out to customer service for help. They may not respond instantly, but they typically resolve issues quickly.

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