How to Fix the GETSOCKOPT Error in Minecraft

The GETSOCKOPT error in Minecraft typically occurs when you try to join a server or a LAN world and the game fails to establish a network connection. You might see messages like “Connection timed out: getsockopt” or “Connection refused: getsockopt.”

In simpler terms, Minecraft (via Java) attempts to communicate with your operating system to verify the status of the network connection. When this fails, it means your computer cannot reach the server at the given IP address and port, or something is actively blocking the connection at the network level.

This error is not a bug in Minecraft; instead, it indicates a network reachability or permission issue caused by your system or router configuration.

Common, Verified Causes of the GETSOCKOPT Error

• Incorrect IP address or port: Minecraft Java Edition uses TCP port 25565, while Bedrock Edition uses UDP port 19132. Using the wrong port prevents a proper connection.
• Server offline or misconfigured: The target server may be off, unreachable, or set to listen on a different port.
• Firewall or antivirus interference: Security software like Windows Defender or third-party antiviruses can block javaw.exe or Minecraft ports on your system.
• Missing router port forwarding: When hosting a server, the required ports must be forwarded to allow inbound traffic.
• Double NAT or CGNAT from ISP: Some ISPs use network address translation layers that block external connections to local servers.
• Router limitations (NAT loopback disabled): Some routers prevent you from connecting to your own public IP; use the local IP instead.

In a LAN setup, this issue can also stem from AP isolation or a “Public” network type with network discovery disabled. Furthermore, VPNs or proxy services may disrupt the connection by rerouting traffic.

Now that you understand the technical reasons behind the GETSOCKOPT error, let’s go through the step-by-step troubleshooting methods to fix it effectively.

1. Run Minecraft as Administrator

Running Minecraft Launcher with administrator privileges ensures it has the permissions needed to manage updates, verify licenses, and establish network connections. Without admin rights, Windows security may block critical operations.

1. Press the Windows key and search for Minecraft Launcher.
2. Right-click the result and select Run as administrator.
3. When prompted by User Account Control (UAC), click Yes.

2. Recheck IP Address

Minecraft requires an accurate IP address and port to connect. A single typo or outdated IP can break the connection. Double-check these details carefully.

• For a local server, ensure all devices share the same network.
• For a public or hosted server, confirm the correct IP and port from the server’s official source.

3. Use a VPN

Routing issues or ISP restrictions can block communication with Minecraft servers. A VPN helps bypass these issues by rerouting traffic through another server, often resolving unstable or filtered connections.

1. Install a reliable VPN such as Cloudflare WARP.
2. Connect to a nearby server for optimal performance.
3. Relaunch Minecraft and attempt to reconnect.

4. Reconnect Your Wi-Fi

Refreshing your network adapter resets its connection to the router, clears conflicts, and may resolve temporary socket errors.

• For Ethernet, unplug and replug your cable after a few seconds.
• For Wi-Fi, disconnect, wait briefly, and reconnect to renew your IP lease.

5. Disable Antivirus and Allow Minecraft in Firewall

Security tools often misidentify Minecraft’s socket traffic as unsafe. Temporarily disabling antivirus protection and ensuring Minecraft is whitelisted in your firewall can restore connectivity.

5.1 Disable Antivirus

1. Open Virus & threat protection from the Windows search bar.
2. Click Manage settings.
3. Turn off Real-time protection temporarily.

5.2 Allow in Firewall

1. Search for Allow an app through Windows Firewall.
2. Click Change settings.
3. Choose Allow another app, then add Minecraft and javaw.exe.
4. Enable the Public network checkbox.
5. Click OK to save.

6. Set Up Port Forwarding

When hosting a Minecraft server, port forwarding ensures inbound traffic reaches your device. Without it, others might not be able to connect, even on your own network.

Note: Port forwarding is needed only for self-hosted servers accessible from outside your local network.

Follow this step-by-step guide to set up port forwarding properly and ensure your server is accessible to all players.

7. Contact Your ISP

If none of these methods work, your Internet Service Provider may be the cause. Some ISPs block ports or apply restrictive NAT policies that interfere with online games.

Contact your ISP’s support team, describe the issue, and mention the GETSOCKOPT error. Ask them to check for blocked ports or network-level filters that may prevent Minecraft connections.