Changing Server Version

By default, your server may come with Vanilla Minecraft. To use plugins, mods, or optimized performance features, you need to change your server software. This guide explains the different types and how to switch them.

Understanding Server Types

Choosing the right software is critical for your server's goals:

Vanilla: The official, untouched Minecraft server software. No mods or plugins supported. Best for a pure, bug-free survival experience.
Paper: A high-performance fork of Spigot. It supports plugins and offers significant performance improvements. Recommended for most servers.
Purpur: Based on Paper, offering even more configuration options and gameplay features. Ideal for advanced users who want granular control.
Forge: The standard for modded Minecraft. Required to run popular modpacks. Both the server and players need installed mods.
Fabric: A newer, lightweight mod loader. Known for extremely fast updates and performance optimization mods like Sodium and Lithium.

How to Change Server Software

You can easily switch your server version through our control panel:

Log in to the Control Panel.
Navigate to your server's dashboard.
In the left sidebar, click on the Software tab.
Under the Server Type section, click the dropdown menu.
Select your desired software (e.g., Paper for plugins, Fabric for mods).
Select the specific Minecraft Version (e.g., 1.20.4).
Click the Install button.

Warning: changing your server software will replace your core server file (server.jar). While your world data is safe, it's always good practice to create a backup before changing versions.

What Happens Next?

After clicking Install, the panel will download the necessary files. Once the process is complete:

Go to the Console tab.
Start your server.
The server will generate new configuration files for the specific software you chose (e.g., paper-global.yml or a mods folder).

Ready to customize? Check out our guide on Installing Plugins & Mods.