Our Panel includes a dedicated Version Manager feature that makes it easy to switch between different Minecraft versions and server types. This guide will walk you through the simple process of changing your Minecraft server version.
Understanding Server Types
Before changing versions, it's important to understand the different server types available:
- Vanilla: Official Minecraft server with no modifications (737 versions available)
- Paper: High-performance optimization of Spigot (44 versions available)
- Spigot: Modified server with plugin support (56 versions available)
- Forge: Server supporting mods (48 versions available)
- Fabric: Lightweight mod loader (390 versions available)
- Purpur: Fork of Paper with additional features (31 versions available)
- PufferFish: Performance-focused Paper fork (15 versions available)
- Mohist/Quilt/Others: Various specialized server types for specific needs
Step 1: Access Your Server Panel
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Log in to the Pterodactyl Panel
- Enter your credentials at your panel URL
- Navigate to your server's dashboard
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Stop Your Server
- Ensure your server is completely stopped before changing versions
- Click the Stop button if your server is currently running
- Wait until the console shows the server has fully stopped
Step 2: Access Version Manager
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Navigate to Version Manager
- From your server dashboard, click on the Management tab in the left sidebar
- Select Version Manager from the submenu
- This will open the dedicated version management interface
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Browse Available Server Types
- In the Version Manager, you'll see a grid of all available server types
- Each server type displays:
- Name and icon (e.g., Vanilla, Paper, Forge)
- Number of Minecraft versions supported
- Number of builds available
- Warning indicators (⚠️ or ☠️) for experimental server types
Step 3: Select and Change Server Version
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Choose Server Type
- Click on your desired server type card (Vanilla, Paper, Spigot, etc.)
- This will open a detailed view for that specific server type
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Select Minecraft Version
- Browse through the available Minecraft versions for your selected server type
- Versions are typically organized from newest to oldest
- Click on your desired version (e.g., 1.20.1, 1.19.4, 1.16.5)
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Choose Build Number (if applicable)
- Some server types have multiple builds for the same Minecraft version
- Select the appropriate build (usually the latest build is recommended)
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Confirm Installation
- Click the Install or Switch Version button
- Confirm your selection when prompted
- The system will automatically download and install the selected server version
Step 4: Wait for Installation
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Monitor Installation Progress
- The installation process may take several minutes depending on the server type
- You can track the progress in the console window
- Do not close the panel during this process
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Verify Installation
- Once complete, the console will display a success message
- The Version Manager will show your newly selected version as the active version
Step 5: Start Your Server
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Return to Console Tab
- Navigate back to the Console tab in the left sidebar
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Start Your Server
- Click the Start button to launch your server with the new version
- Monitor the console for any errors during startup
- If the server starts successfully, you'll see the normal startup messages
Troubleshooting Common Issues
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Version Incompatibility Issues
- Plugins: Ensure all plugins are compatible with your new server version
- Mods: Update mods to match your new Forge/Fabric version
- World Data: Some major version changes may require world conversion tools
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Installation Failures
- If installation fails, try selecting a different build of the same version
- Check server logs for specific error messages
- Consider using an older/more stable version if experiencing issues
If you encounter persistent issues when changing your Minecraft server version, please contact our Support Team through your client portal or at support@nauticalhosting.org
Note: Always back up your world data, configurations, and plugins/mods before changing versions to prevent data loss.