The short answer: No, you don't need a dedicated IP for most Minecraft servers. Shared IPs with port numbers work perfectly fine for the vast majority of players, and you can always use a subdomain to make your server address memorable without paying extra for a dedicated IP.
That said, there are specific situations where a dedicated IP actually makes sense. Let's break down when you need one, when you don't, and what alternatives exist.
What Is a Dedicated IP Address?
A dedicated IP is an IP address that's exclusively yours. When you get a dedicated IP for your Minecraft server, no other servers share that address.
Dedicated IP Example:
123.45.67.89
Your players connect directly without needing a port number.
Shared IP Example:
123.45.67.89:25501
Multiple servers share the same IP address but use different ports to distinguish between them.
Most hosting providers assign shared IPs by default because they work perfectly well for the majority of use cases.
When You DON'T Need a Dedicated IP
For most server owners, a dedicated IP is an unnecessary expense. Here's when you can skip it:
1. You're Running a Private Server
If you're playing with friends or a small community, sharing an IP address with a port number is completely fine. Players just save your server address once and they're good to go.
2. You Use a Subdomain Domain
This is the smartest alternative to a dedicated IP. Instead of making players remember 123.45.67.89:25565, you can set up:
yourserver.subsomain.com
Much cleaner, more professional, and doesn't require a dedicated IP. Most hosting providers let you set up subdomains for free.
3. You're Just Starting Out
When you're testing the waters with your first server, there's no reason to pay extra for features you don't need yet. Shared IPs work identically to dedicated ones for gameplay.
When You SHOULD Get a Dedicated IP
There are legitimate reasons to pay for a dedicated IP, especially if you're running a serious or public server.
1. You Want the Cleanest Address Possible
If you're building a brand or running a large public server, having a simple IP without port numbers looks more professional:
✅ 123.45.67.89
❌ 123.45.67.89:25565
This matters more for marketing materials, YouTube videos, or Twitch streams where you're promoting your server.
2. Bedrock Edition Compatibility
Here's where dedicated IPs actually matter. Bedrock Edition players (Xbox, PlayStation, Switch, mobile) often can't connect to servers using port numbers.
If you want console and mobile players to join without complicated workarounds, a dedicated IP makes their lives much easier.
3. You're Running Multiple Services
When you host multiple game servers, websites, or services on the same machine, a dedicated IP helps with organization and DNS management.
How Much Does a Dedicated IP Cost?
Pricing varies by hosting provider, but expect to pay:
- $5 per month for most Minecraft hosts
- One-time fees of $10-20 with some providers
Whether this is worth it depends entirely on your server's purpose and audience.
How to Get a Dedicated IP
If you've decided you need one, the process is straightforward:
- Contact your hosting provider – Most offer dedicated IPs as an add-on
- Request the IP through your control panel – Look for "Dedicated IP" or "Networking" options
- Update your DNS settings – Point your domain to the new dedicated IP
- Share the new address – Let your players know the updated connection info
The switch is usually instant, though DNS propagation can take a few hours.
Looking for hosting that makes server management simple? Check out Minecraft Server Hosting with easy IP management and custom domain setup.
Common Misconceptions About Dedicated IPs
"My server will run faster with a dedicated IP"
False. Server performance depends on CPU, RAM, and bandwidth—not IP address type. A shared IP performs identically to a dedicated one.
"I need a dedicated IP for mods and plugins"
False. Mods and plugins don't care about your IP configuration. They work the same on shared or dedicated IPs.
"Dedicated IPs are more secure"
Mostly false. Both shared and dedicated IPs can be equally secure with proper firewall configuration. Dedicated IPs avoid reputation risks from other servers, but that's rarely an actual problem.
"All professional servers use dedicated IPs"
False. Plenty of massive, successful Minecraft servers use shared IPs with custom domains. Players never know the difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a dedicated IP for a Minecraft server?
No, most Minecraft servers work perfectly fine with a shared IP and port number. A dedicated IP is optional and mainly useful for Bedrock compatibility, branding, or running multiple services.
What's the difference between a shared IP and dedicated IP for Minecraft?
A shared IP is used by multiple servers and requires a port number (e.g., 123.45.67.89:25565), while a dedicated IP is exclusive to your server and doesn't need a port (e.g., 123.45.67.89).
Can Bedrock players join servers without a dedicated IP?
It's difficult. Bedrock Edition (consoles and mobile) doesn't easily support port numbers, so a dedicated IP or special workarounds are needed for smooth connectivity.
How do I make my server IP easier to remember?
Use a custom domain or subdomain with an SRV record. Instead of sharing an IP address, you can use something like "play.yourserver.com" which works with both shared and dedicated IPs.
Does a dedicated IP improve server performance?
No, IP address type has zero impact on server performance. Your server speed depends on hardware specs (CPU, RAM, disk speed) and network bandwidth, not whether your IP is shared or dedicated.
Can I switch from a shared IP to a dedicated IP later?
Yes, you can upgrade to a dedicated IP anytime through your hosting provider. The transition is usually instant, though DNS changes may take a few hours to propagate globally.
Are dedicated IPs worth it for small servers?
Generally no. If you're playing with a small group of friends, a shared IP with a custom domain is more cost-effective and works just as well.
Will my players notice if I use a shared IP?
Not if you use a custom domain. Players only notice when they have to type in port numbers, which custom domains eliminate automatically through SRV records.
