Understanding Minecraft Server Access: IP or Public IP?
2021-11-24
When it comes to playing Minecraft on multiplayer servers, one important aspect to understand is how to connect to the server. This involves knowing the server's IP address, but sometimes confusion arises between the terms "IP" and "Public IP." In this article, we will clarify the difference between these two terms and provide a better understanding of Minecraft server access.
IP Address:
An IP address, or Internet Protocol address, is a unique numerical label assigned to each device connected to a computer network. In the context of Minecraft servers, an IP address refers to the specific address assigned to the server hosting the Minecraft world. It allows players to connect to the server and join the multiplayer experience.
Public IP Address:
A Public IP address, also known as a global IP address, is a unique address assigned to a device connected to the internet. It is used to identify and communicate with the device from outside the local network. In the context of Minecraft servers, the Public IP address is the address used by players outside the server's local network to connect to the server.
Understanding the Difference:
The main difference between an IP address and a Public IP address lies in their usage and accessibility. The IP address is specific to the local network and is used by devices within the network to communicate with each other. On the other hand, the Public IP address is the address that external devices, such as players connecting from outside the network, use to connect to the server.
Connecting to a Minecraft Server:
To connect to a Minecraft server, you need the server's IP address. This is the address that identifies the server within its local network. If you are on the same local network as the server, you can simply use the server's IP address to connect.
However, if you are outside the server's local network, you need to use the server's Public IP address to connect. The Public IP address allows external devices to communicate with the server over the internet. Players connecting from different networks can use the Public IP address along with the server's port number to connect to the Minecraft server.
Finding the IP Address and Public IP Address:
To find the IP address of a Minecraft server within your local network, you can check the server settings or consult the server administrator.
To find the Public IP address of a Minecraft server, you can use online services or websites that provide IP address lookup tools. Simply search for "What is my IP address" or similar phrases in a search engine, and the results should display your Public IP address. Keep in mind that the Public IP address may change periodically, especially for residential internet connections. If the server has a dynamic IP address, it is advisable to use a dynamic DNS service to assign a consistent domain name to the server.
Understanding the difference between an IP address and a Public IP address is crucial when connecting to Minecraft servers. The IP address is specific to the server's local network, while the Public IP address is used for external connections over the internet. By using the appropriate IP address, you can successfully connect to Minecraft servers and enjoy multiplayer adventures with friends and players from around the world.
