Minecraft is arguably one of the most popular games around and has been for quite some time now. While the game is bug-free mainly, it still does run into occasional issues now and then.
In this article, we’re talking about the “unable to connect to world” error in Minecraft, its causes and what you can do to eliminate the problem.
Why does this Minecraft error happen?
There are several reasons you might be getting this error, the most common ones being the following.
- Windows firewall issues.
- Incorrect permissions.
- Internet issues.
- Issues in your Friends list.
- Corrupt game account.
Also read: How to fix ‘https aka ms remoteconnect not working’ issue in Minecraft?
How to fix this Minecraft World issue?
Try out these solutions to see if you can fix the error.
Check your internet connection
Minecraft requires an active internet connection to work. If you have an unstable internet connection, chances are you’re going to miss out on notifications. Suppose you’re on WiFi check to see if you’ve got internet access and strong signals. If you’re on mobile data, check to see if data is enabled and that you’ve got good network coverage.
Disable any firewalls
If you’re using any third-party firewalls, now’s the time to disable them to see if they’re blocking Minecraft. The same goes for any third-party antiviruses.
If your Windows firewall is blocking Minecraft, refer to this guide to see how you can unblock the program.
Try adding your friend again
If the friend whose world you’re trying to join isn’t on your list, you won’t be able to connect to them in the first place. However, if they already are and you’re still seeing this error, try removing them from your friends’ list and adding them back. You can use the following command to remove a friend.
/f remove [friend's username]
Also read: What does Smite do in Minecraft?
Update Windows and Minecraft
Updating both the game and your OS can also help resolve the issue by eliminating any underlying bugs hindering functionality.
Check out this guide to quickly update Windows or pause updates if it's hindering your game. You can also check out this guide to update Windows 10 from Command line and Powershell. If you're facing issues while updating Windows 10, go here.
Enable multiplayer
Minecraft uses your Xbox account’s multiplayer and privacy settings. Check to make sure if multiplayer is allowed in there.
Step 1: Head over to the Xbox website and log in. Head over to the Xbox One/Windows 10 Online Safety section

Step 2: Scroll down and click Allow next to You can join multiplayer games. Click Submit when you’re done.

Use a VPN
Another issue you could be running into is your ISP blocking outgoing internet traffic from your PC. You can work around this by using a VPN to connect to game servers.Â
Also read: All Minecraft colour codes listed
Install Minecraft Java Edition
As seasoned players would be aware, Minecraft comes in a few different versions. If you’re using the Windows Store version, uninstall it and download the Java edition from Minecraft’s official website. That should resolve any connectivity issues you’re facing.
Reset settings
Sometimes, resetting your browser’s settings is the best way you can tackle random issues like this.
Step 1: Open Internet Explorer and click on the settings icon in the top-right, followed by Internet Options.

Step 2: Head over to the Advanced tab and click Reset.

Step 3: Check the Delete personal settings checkbox and click Reset.

Restart your computer, and the game should be back to normal.
Resolving the error on consoles
If you’re playing Minecraft on a console, chances are your ISP is restricting you in terms of what communication is allowed from your router. If you’re behind a NAT, you won’t be able to connect to any games either.Â
If you’ve set up a NAT or firewall on your router, try disabling it to see if your connections can get through. If not, you should get in touch with your ISP and work any issues out that may be blocking outgoing traffic from your end.
Also read: What does Impaling do in Minecraft?