Minecraft comes in two separate editions — Java Edition and Bedrock Edition — and the steps for connecting to the Ender Minecraft server are a little different for each. This guide helps you figure out which one your child is using so you can follow the right instructions.
Start with the device
In most cases, the device your child plays on tells you right away which edition they have:
- Windows computer: Java OR Bedrock Edition — and some families own both (see below)
- Mac (macOS) computer: Java Edition
- Chromebook: Bedrock Edition (on supported models, via the Google Play Store)
- Phone or tablet (iPhone, iPad, Android, or Amazon Fire): Bedrock Edition
- Game console (Xbox, PlayStation, or Nintendo Switch): Bedrock Edition
If your child plays on anything other than a Windows computer, you can stop here — the table above is all you need. Windows is the only device that can run either edition, so it gets a few extra steps below.
On a Windows computer, how do I tell which one?
Windows is the one device that can run either edition, and some families have both installed. Here are two easy ways to check:
- Open the Minecraft Launcher. In the left-hand sidebar, the launcher lists the edition(s) you own. You may see "Minecraft: Java Edition," "Minecraft for Windows" (this is Bedrock Edition), or both.
- Check the app name. On the Start menu or desktop, "Minecraft: Java Edition" is the Java version, while "Minecraft for Windows" (sometimes shown simply as "Minecraft") is the Bedrock version.
How can I tell once the game is open?
If you'd rather confirm from inside the game, a few quick visual cues give it away:
- Marketplace button: Bedrock Edition's main menu includes a "Marketplace" button. Java Edition does not have one.
- How you join servers: In Java, you connect by going to Multiplayer → Add Server and entering a server address. In Bedrock, you connect by adding a player as a friend using their gamertag. (This is why our Java and Bedrock connection guides look so different.)
What to do next
Once you know which edition your child has, follow the matching steps in our guide, Connecting to the Ender Minecraft server. If your child plays Java Edition and needs to match a specific server version, see Installing a specific version of Minecraft: Java Edition.
Still not sure?
If you're not certain which edition your child has, reach out to the Ender Gaming Club support team using the information below. Let us know what device they play on and we'll help you sort it out.