---
title: Change the version or server software
description: Safely change a Minecraft version, switch server software, or select another Java runtime.
---

A version change updates Minecraft while keeping the same server software. A software change moves the server between platforms such as Paper, Fabric, Forge, or NeoForge.

<Warning>
  Create and download a backup before either change. Never rely on a world downgrade being safe.
</Warning>

## Change the Minecraft version

1. Stop the server.
2. Open **Danger Zone**.
3. Under **Version & Runtime**, choose a version from **Minecraft Version**.
4. Click **Switch**, then **Confirm & Reinstall**.
5. Wait for the reinstall to finish before starting the server.

The panel preserves worlds and files during a supported version change. Plugins and mods may still need compatible releases.

<Info>
  **Screenshot coming soon:** **Version & Runtime** with the Minecraft version selector and **Switch** button visible.

  Planned file: `assets/guides/changing-software-version/version-picker.png`
</Info>

### Before upgrading

- Check that important plugins or mods support the new version.
- Update required dependencies together.
- Keep the backup until you have joined and tested the server.

### Do not downgrade a world

Minecraft does not support safely opening a newer world in an older server version. Missing blocks, entities, chunks, or complete world corruption can result.

If you must return to an older version, restore a backup created on that older version.

## Switch server software

1. Stop the server.
2. Create and download a backup.
3. Open **Danger Zone**.
4. Under **Software**, open **Switch Server Software**.
5. Select the new software and version.
6. Read the warning shown by the panel.
7. Type the server name to confirm the reinstall.

<Warning>
  A software switch performs a complete reinstall and may replace server files. Plugins and mods do not carry between different server types. Keep an off-panel backup before confirming.
</Warning>

<Info>
  **Screenshot coming soon:** Software picker after selecting a different platform, including the reinstall warning and confirmation field.

  Planned file: `assets/guides/changing-software-version/software-switch.png`
</Info>

After the reinstall, check the world folder, reinstall compatible plugins or mods, then start the server and read **Console**.

## Change the Java version

The Java selector is under **Danger Zone → Version & Runtime** when it is available for the server.

Leave Java unchanged unless Minecraft, a mod loader, or a mod specifically requires another version. The wrong Java version can prevent startup.

<Info>
  **Screenshot coming soon:** Java selector under **Version & Runtime**.

  Planned file: `assets/guides/changing-software-version/java-picker.png`
</Info>

## If the server no longer starts

1. Read the first clear error in **Console**.
2. Check plugin, mod, loader, Minecraft, and Java compatibility.
3. Remove or update the incompatible file.
4. If the change cannot be repaired, restore the backup made before the change.