Fixing “Unable to connect to world” error in Minecraft
6 min read
Minecraft, the massively popular sandbox game, sometimes has connection errors. If you are unable to connect to the world or server you’re looking for in Minecraft, follow the steps in this article to fix the problem.
Why is Minecraft unable to connect to a world?
If you’re getting the “Unable to connect to world” Minecraft error when trying to connect to a friend’s world — or when trying to play Minecraft on your own — there could be a number of causes. From game bugs to problematic Windows firewall settings, you should explore each option individually until you find the source of the problem. To resolve each possible issue, attempt each of the steps below:
- Restart the game.
- Restart your router or internet connection.
- Check firewall settings.
- Check for game updates.
- Check multiplayer settings.
- Use a VPN.
In the following section, we’ll break these steps down and explain how they can help you get onto a friend’s world or server.
How to fix “Unable to connect to world” error in Minecraft
This error is particularly annoying if you’re trying to play multiplayer games and join a friend’s server. You can usually fix connection issues with your Minecraft world through one or more of these six solutions.
Restart the game
Turn off and then launch Minecraft again. If a small bug or internal error has manifested, this could be expunged by rebooting the program. Make sure to close out of the Minecraft launcher completely — don’t just return to the main menu. As an extra measure, you may wish to turn your whole device off and on before you restart the game.
Restart your router and internet connection
If the fault lies with your internet connection, try restarting your router. Even if your Minecraft world is entirely private, it is still stored online, unless you have specifically set your game up for offline play. The “Unable to connect to world” error might be the result of a slow or faulty internet connection, so a router reboot could help.
Check firewall settings
Most routers and devices have built-in firewalls: systems that block risky incoming traffic. These defensive measures are very important and should be kept on while you’re browsing the internet. However, they can sometimes become confused and perceive safe traffic (like data from Minecraft servers) to be a threat. This is particularly likely when playing on PC, so check your Windows firewall settings — you may be able to set them to recognize Minecraft server’s dedicated IP as a safe site. The Windows Defender Firewall is known to sometimes cause these issues.
Check for game updates
Another reason that your Minecraft game might not be working properly is that you haven’t installed the latest updates. Many games, including Minecraft, are regularly updated and patched. These software updates sometimes add new content but are often just meant to improve performance and security. Install any updates and check to see if this has fixed the connection error. Updating your software can also fix Minecraft LAN issues if you’re hosting a LAN party.
Check multiplayer settings
Not all features are automatically available when you install Minecraft on a console or PC. You may need to manually enable the “Join multiplayer games” setting and turn on features for creating and joining clubs. If you’re trying to connect to a friend’s Minecraft world, for example, you’ll need your game’s multiplayer functionality switched on.
Use a VPN
The problem could be caused by restrictions on your network. For example, your internet service provider or network administrator might be blocking Minecraft. To circumvent network restrictions, download a VPN. With a VPN on your device, outside observers (including your ISP) won’t be able to observe your activity and block Minecraft.
NordVPN now comes with Meshnet, a feature that allows you to link multiple devices with encrypted tunnels. If you and your friends play Minecraft with Meshnet, you can run multiplayer games on your LAN while keeping all your data protected.
Why is my friend unable to connect to my Minecraft world?
If a friend is getting the “Unable to connect to world” error message when trying to connect to your world, there are a few likely causes. One is that they are experiencing some of the problems we’ve already discussed in this article. In this case, they should follow the aforementioned steps and see if any of those help with their connection issues.
They should pay particular attention to any in-game settings that allow (or don’t allow) them to join multiplayer games. They may also have to disable Windows firewall restrictions or make some changes to their antivirus software settings.
Another possibility is that your world isn’t set to allow other people to access it. Make sure that you’ve set your world to be “open to LAN” and that your friend has the right Minecraft server data to find the world and connect (the IP address and world/server name).
You should also double-check that you’re both playing the latest version of the game, with all available updates.
Should you use a VPN for Minecraft?
A VPN can definitely help with some networking problems on Minecraft, though not all connection errors result from local network restrictions. However, a VPN is a good tool to use regardless, as it enhances your overall security and privacy while playing online.
Premium VPNs like NordVPN protect your data with layers of powerful encryption and shield your IP address, which protects you from doxxing and DDoS attacks. NordVPN also offers an additional Threat Protection tool, a powerful feature that limits online tracking, blocks annoying ads, and lowers the risk of malware infection.
One NordVPN account can cover up to ten devices and can even be configured on a router, protecting any gaming consoles connected to it.