Change software and version
The Versions page changes the software (for example Paper to Fabric) and the Minecraft version. No jar uploads or launch settings: the panel handles them and protects your data.
Three values at the top show what you run now:
- YOUR SERVER: the software, for example Paper.
- INSTALLED VERSION: for example 26.1.2.
- JAVA: the Java version in use.
Change the software or version in 3 steps
Open Versions in the MINECRAFT group, then follow the three numbered sections:
- 1. Server software: click the software you want.
- 2. Version: pick the Minecraft version. Java that will be used is chosen automatically.
- 3. Review and apply: check the summary and apply.
You can change only the version or only the software.
Software options
JAVA EDITION
| Software | What it is |
|---|---|
| Paper | Fast, with plugin support. The best default for most servers. |
| Purpur | Paper with more gameplay options. |
| Vanilla | The official Mojang server. |
| Fabric | Lightweight mod loader. |
| Forge | Classic mod loader. |
| NeoForge | Modern, maintained Forge. |
| Arclight | Mods and plugins at once. |
| SpongeVanilla | Plugin API for Vanilla. |
CROSSPLAY
| Software | What it is |
|---|---|
| Crossplay | Java and Bedrock on one server. |
PROXY
| Software | What it is |
|---|---|
| Velocity | Modern proxy. |
| BungeeCord | Classic proxy. |
BEDROCK
| Software | What it is |
|---|---|
| Vanilla Bedrock | The official Bedrock server. |
The 2. Version list starts with Latest release and goes back through many older releases.
What happens when you apply
The panel shows live progress through these 7 steps:
- Stop the server
- Create a locked backup
- Apply the change
- Install the server
- Start the server
- Check the version
- Finish
Each step turns to Done as it finishes.
The automatic backup
Before anything changes, the panel creates a locked backup named Before changing to <Software> <version> (date UTC), for example Before changing to Paper 26.3 (2026-10-13 10:01 UTC). Download or restore it from Backups like any other.
Automatic restore if it fails
If the server does not start with the new version, the panel restores everything itself and shows The change could not be completed and your server is as it was before, with the failed step marked. The backup of this change is unlocked, so you can delete it from Backups. Got it closes the message; Details shows more.
What is kept and what is not
- Worlds are kept. The change does not delete your worlds.
- Plugins and mods may not carry over. Between very different software, for example Paper to Forge, they will not work. On the same software, each must support the new Minecraft version. After a change, check Plugins or Mods and update or remove what no longer works.
Minecraft cannot safely load a world that was saved by a newer version. If you go back to an older version after the world was opened in a newer one, the world can fail to load or be damaged. Before downgrading, restore a backup made on the older version (see below) rather than reusing the current world.
Going back
- Choose the previous version on the Versions page and apply it. Fine if the change was moments ago and the world has barely been played.
- Restore the backup named Before changing to ... from Backups. It brings back the files, world included, as before the change. This is the safest way back.
Tips
- Pick Latest release for new servers. Pick an older version only when your plugins, mods or modpack require it.
- Tell players about version changes in advance; their game version must match.
- For a fresh world on the new version, see Worlds.
- If a change fails and the cause is unclear, open Details, ask Fenix to read the console, or contact support.