---
title: "Fix Connection Issues to Your Server | FPS.ms"
description: "Can't connect to your FPS.ms server? Verify the server is running, check IP and port, fix version mismatch, and resolve DNS issues."
url: https://fps.ms/docs/troubleshooting/cant-connect-to-my-server
---
# Can't Connect to My Server

If you can't connect to your game server, work through these steps in order to identify and fix the problem.

## Step 1: Is the server running?

Go to the **Console** tab of your server in the panel. Check that:

- The server status shows **Running** (not Offline or Starting)
- The console shows the server has finished loading (e.g., "Done! For help, type help")

If the server is not running, start it and wait for it to fully load before trying to connect.

## Step 2: Are you using the correct IP and port?

The most common connection issue is using the wrong address.

1. Go to the **Console** tab -- your connection address is shown at the top
2. The format is `IP:PORT` (e.g., `mango.fps.ms:25565`)
3. Make sure you're entering both the IP **and** the port in your game client

!!! warning "Don't Forget the Port"
    Unlike some other hosts, your server may not use the default game port. Always include the port number after the colon.

## Step 3: Check for version mismatch

For Minecraft servers, your client version must match the server version.

- Check the server version in the **Console** output or **Startup** settings
- Make sure your Minecraft launcher is set to the same version
- If the server runs Spigot/Paper 1.20.4, your client must be 1.20.4 (unless the server has ViaVersion installed)

## Step 4: Is the server suspended or expired?

Free servers require periodic renewal. If your server has expired:

- You'll see a notice on the server page
- The server cannot be started until renewed
- Go to the server's page and click **Renew** if available

## Step 5: DNS not propagated (custom domain)

If you're using a custom domain or DDNS address to connect:

- Try connecting with the raw `IP:PORT` instead to rule out DNS issues
- DNS changes can take up to 48 hours to propagate globally
- Use an [online DNS checker](https://dnschecker.org) to verify your domain resolves correctly

## Step 6: Check your firewall or ISP

In rare cases, your local network may block the connection:

- Try connecting from a different network (e.g., mobile data)
- Check if your firewall or antivirus is blocking the game client
- Some school or corporate networks block game server ports

## Still not working?

If none of the steps above resolve the issue, join the [FPS.ms Discord server](https://fps.ms/discord) and ask for help in the support channel. Include:

- Your server's connection address
- The error message you see in the game client
- Whether the server shows as running in the panel

---

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