Minecraft Java server guide: join, mods, settings and fixes
Updated 31 October 2026 · 3 minute read · Minecraft Java Edition · By Exclsv Support
Everything you need to run your Minecraft Java server in HQ, in one page.
Join
- In Minecraft Java Edition, open Multiplayer, then Add Server.
- Paste the address exactly as your server’s Join page in HQ shows it.
- Choose Done, then join from the list.
Java Edition is the version bought from minecraft.net. Minecraft from the Microsoft Store or Xbox app is Bedrock.
Mods
Choose the loader on the Mods page under Loader and version: Paper for plugins, Fabric, Forge or NeoForge for mods, or a CurseForge modpack. Then search and install from the Mods page. Some mods are needed by every player, and HQ refuses mods that only run in the player’s own game.
Settings
Open Settings, then Game settings. Each setting has a plain label, one line of help and the game’s own default where HQ knows it. Most changes take effect at the next restart; HQ marks the ones that change straight away. Any released Minecraft version can be picked, and it stays until you change it.
Backups and going back
HQ takes an hourly backup (Automatic backups) and keeps each for up to 48 hours, plus an off-site backup every 6 hours with 7 daily copies. To go back, open Backups, then Automatic backups, pick a time and choose Go back. Your world as it is now is kept, so you can undo it.
If it doesn’t work
“You are not white-listed on this server”
Add their Minecraft username under Players, then Who can join.
“Outdated server” or “Outdated client”
Players pick the server’s Minecraft version in the launcher.
Java ran out of memory
Big modpacks and many loaded chunks need a larger size. See how much memory Minecraft needs.
A mod needs another mod
The Server Doctor names the missing one; install it from the Mods page.
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