What you need
Minecraft: Java Edition on a computer, with an official account. Bedrock Edition, meaning consoles, phones and "Minecraft for Windows", cannot join Java servers. Most public servers, Sturdy included, need no mods: the vanilla game works.
1. Pick the version
Every server runs one version of the game, and most accept a range around it. In the Minecraft Launcher, open the Installations tab. "Latest release" is right for most servers. If a server names a version, click New installation, pick that release from the version list, and press Create. Sturdy accepts any version from 1.13 to 26.3 and runs 26.2; 26.2 and 26.3 show everything as intended.
2. Add the server
Press Play, then Multiplayer, then Add Server. Type the server address exactly as the server gives it, with no spaces: for Sturdy that is play.sturdymc.com. Most addresses need no port. Name the entry whatever you like and press Done. It appears in your list with its icon and player count; select it and press Join Server.
3. Accept the resource pack, if there is one
Some servers send a small resource pack when you join. On Sturdy Survival it is required and only changes text, not blocks or items. If the download fails, go to Multiplayer, select the server, press Edit, set Server Resource Packs to Enabled (or Prompt), press Done and rejoin.
4. If it will not connect
- "Outdated client" or "Outdated server": your version is outside what the server accepts. Change the installation's version and try again.
- "Unknown host" or "Can't connect to server": almost always a typo in the address, or the server is restarting. Check the address letter by letter.
- "Failed to verify username": your launcher's session has expired. Sign out of the launcher and back in.
- Kicked right after joining: usually the resource pack. See step 3.
Our own address, every server's address and the full error table are on the join page.
Try it now
Add play.sturdymc.com and you arrive in the Sturdy hub. Right-click the compass to pick a server; Survival is open now. Your first stop is spawn, and a free plot in StarterVille is waiting if you want one.