Server admin
Whitelist a Minecraft server
A whitelist turns your server into invite-only: only listed accounts get in, everyone else is kicked at the door. Three commands do the whole job, add the names, switch it on, and reload.
Whitelist by file vs by command
Both edit the same store. /whitelist add and remove resolve the name to a UUID and write whitelist.json for you, safest, no typos. Editing whitelist.json directly is fine for bulk imports, but you must run /whitelist reload afterward or the server keeps using the old in-memory list. Either way, the gate only enforces once /whitelist on is set and white-list-enabled is true in server.properties.
Quick answers
+What is the command to whitelist a player?
/whitelist add <name> while the console or your op account runs it. The server confirms with "Added <name> to the whitelist". Then run /whitelist on so the list is enforced.
+Why is whitelist add not blocking anyone?
Adding a name does not enable the gate. You must also run /whitelist on. With the list off, every name in whitelist.json is ignored and anyone can join.
+Do ops bypass the whitelist?
Yes. Server operators can always connect even when off the list, which is why testing the kick with a normal, non-op account matters.
+What does "You are not white-listed on this server" mean?
The whitelist is on and the connecting account is not in whitelist.json. Add them with /whitelist add <name> and they can join on the next attempt.
+Can I whitelist offline-mode or cracked players?
Offline-mode servers match by username, not UUID, so a whitelisted name can be impersonated. Keep online-mode true for a real security gate, or use a plugin like EssentialsX for finer control.
+How do I remove someone from the whitelist?
Run /whitelist remove <name>. They stay connected until they leave or you /kick them; use /whitelist reload to enforce the list against players already online.