How to Join ANY Minecraft Server on Console
People search this every day because Minecraft on Xbox, PS5, and Nintendo Switch does not show a normal Add Server button. You can still join custom servers in 2026 — you just need the right method.
Why consoles block normal server IPs
On Minecraft Bedrock for Windows and mobile, you can open the Servers tab and add almost any address. On console, Microsoft only lists Featured Servers. That is why searches like how to join any Minecraft server on console, join custom server Xbox, and add server PS5 Minecraft are so common.
The good news: custom servers still work if they support Bedrock and give console players a path in.
Three methods people use in 2026
1. Friend join method (easiest for FadeMC)
Add a server-owned Minecraft friend, then join from the Friends tab. For FadeMC, that friend is FadeMC2. No DNS changes. No phone app. This is the cleanest path for our SMP.
2. BedrockTogether / phone proxy apps
A phone on the same Wi‑Fi runs a tiny proxy. You type the server IP in the app, then join the LAN-style listing under Friends on Xbox or PlayStation. Useful for random public IPs, more steps than a friend bot.
3. BedrockConnect DNS method
Change your console DNS so Featured Server redirects open a server list where you can type IPs. Powerful, but network settings affect the whole console and break more often after updates.
Fastest path: join FadeMC on console
- Open Minecraft Bedrock on Xbox, PS5/PS4, or Nintendo Switch.
- Go to Play → Friends and choose Add Friend.
- Search for and add FadeMC2.
- Wait a few seconds, then join FadeMC from the joinable friends list.
- Java and PC Bedrock friends can use fademc.gg.
Platform deep-dives: Xbox · PS5 / PS4 · Switch
Which method should you pick?
- Joining FadeMC: use FadeMC2. Skip DNS and apps.
- Joining one random Bedrock IP once: phone proxy apps are common.
- Joining many different IPs often: some players use BedrockConnect DNS.
- Playing with Java friends long-term: pick a true crossplay SMP like FadeMC.
Requirements before you start
- Minecraft Bedrock updated on the console.
- Online multiplayer enabled (Xbox multiplayer / PlayStation Plus where required / Switch online).
- A signed-in Microsoft account inside Minecraft.
- A server that actually accepts Bedrock (or Geyser crossplay) players.
FAQ
Can you really join any Minecraft server on console?
You can join many custom Bedrock-compatible servers. Pure Java servers only work if they run a Bedrock bridge such as Geyser. Featured-only menus do not mean custom multiplayer is impossible.
Is the friend method safer than changing DNS?
For FadeMC, yes. Friend join does not rewrite your console network settings. DNS methods can affect every account on the device until you reverse them.
Why does my friend appear but I still cannot join?
Check multiplayer privacy, restart Minecraft, confirm the exact friend name, and try again after 30–60 seconds. Ask in the FadeMC Discord if FadeMC2 still never becomes joinable.