How To Allow Java Through Your Firewall for Minecraft Servers

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Are you tired of being unable to join Minecraft servers, but your friends can? This is a frustrating moment, especially if you don’t know how to fix it. Don’t worry! The firewall behind your computer is preventing you from connecting to a server, but there’s a simple solution.

In this Apex Hosting guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to allow Java through the firewall on both Windows and MacOS. Afterwards, you can enjoy playing with friends on your own Minecraft server or someone else’s community. Let’s begin 🔥

Why is the Firewall Blocking Minecraft?

A firewall is designed to protect your computer by controlling which apps can send and receive information. While this helps keep your system secure, it can also block safe programs. Because Minecraft servers run on Java, the firewall can prevent incoming connections until you explicitly allow it.

This typically occurs when you first install Java / Minecraft on your device OR you have an antivirus program that prevents the connection via its own firewall settings. If the last scenario is happening to you, then you might need to find documentation about the antivirus software to resolve the situation.

How to Fix on Windows

Open Control Panel > System and Security, then choose Windows Defender Firewall.
On the left side, click Allow an app through Windows Firewall.
Look for Java(TM) Platform SE binary in the list of programs.
Make sure both Private and Public boxes are checked.
Press OK to save your changes.

Now Java can communicate freely and your server should be accessible.

How to Fix on MacOS

Open System Settings > Firewall (this may be under Network or Privacy & Security).
Open the Firewall Options menu.
Click the “+” button to add a new program.
Find and select Java (or Java Virtual Machine).
Set it to Allow incoming connections and confirm your changes.

Your Mac will now allow Java, ensuring others can connect to your server.

What About on Console?

Whether you’re on Xbox, PlayStation, or Switch, it does not run on Java. This means you wouldn’t need to fix the firewall, but there could be other reasons why you’re unable to join a server.

We have other guides that will help you troubleshoot and resolve any connection problem:

Simple, Easy, You’re Done!

Allowing Java through your firewall ensures a stable connection to any Minecraft server. Whether it’s your own or someone else’s server, you can now play with friends! However, if you still have some issues connecting, then there could be other reasons why that’s happening.

We strongly recommend checking these resources to see if they help: