> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.galeniusnodes.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# How to Change Your Minecraft Server Version (Manual Upload & Panel Installer)

> Learn how to change your Minecraft server version using either a manual server jar upload or a one-click installer from your hosting panel. Compatible with most hosting providers and panels like Pterodactyl.

# 🧭 How to Change Your Minecraft Server Version

Whether you want to downgrade or update your Minecraft server, there are two main ways to switch your server version:

1. **Manual Upload** – You upload the server `.jar` file yourself
2. **Hosting Panel Installer** – Use your host's built-in version selector or installer

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## 📂 Method 1: Change Version by Uploading Server Jar (Manual)

### 🔧 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Stop Your Server**\
   Always stop your server before making any changes to avoid file corruption.

2. **Delete/Backup Old Files**
   * Backup your `world`, `plugins`, and `configs` if needed.
   * Delete the current `server.jar` or version-specific jar (like `paper-xxx.jar`).

3. **Download the Server Jar You Want**
   * Go to the official site:
     * Vanilla: [minecraft.net/download/server](https://www.minecraft.net/en-us/download/server)
     * Paper: [papermc.io](https://papermc.io/)
     * Spigot: Use [BuildTools](https://www.spigotmc.org/wiki/buildtools/)
     * Forge: [files.minecraftforge.net](https://files.minecraftforge.net/)
   * Download the desired `.jar` version to your computer.

4. **Upload the Jar to Your Server**
   * Use **SFTP** (like FileZilla) or your host’s file manager.
   * Upload the `.jar` to the root directory (usually where your `server.properties` is).

5. **Rename the Jar (If Needed)**
   * Rename it to `server.jar` or match what your host expects (e.g., `run.jar`).
   * Adjust your `startup command` in the panel if it's not `server.jar`.

6. **Start the Server**
   * Confirm everything loads correctly. Check the console logs for version confirmation.

***

## ⚙️ Method 2: Use Hosting Panel Installer

Many hosting providers (especially with Pterodactyl-based panels) offer one-click version switching.

### 📥 How to Use It:

1. **Go to the Version Installer Section**
   * Usually labeled something like “Minecraft Version”, “Installer”, or “Server Jar Manager”

2. **Choose Your Desired Version**
   * Options often include:
     * Vanilla
     * Paper
     * Spigot
     * Forge
     * Fabric
   * Select the version number (e.g., 1.20.6, 1.19.4, etc.)

3. **Click Install or Change**
   * The panel will automatically download the server jar.
   * Some hosts let you keep old worlds or reset everything — choose accordingly.

4. **Restart the Server**
   * The new version will now be active!

***

## 🧠 Final Tips

* **Check Plugin Compatibility** – Plugins may break when switching major versions.
* **Backups Are Crucial** – Always back up your `world` and configs before changing versions.
* **Match Clients** – Players must use the same version as your server.

> 💡 Need affordable hosting that supports Geyser out of the box? Check out [GaleniusNodes](https://galeniusnodes.com) — Hassle free experience.

***

## ✅ Summary

| Method          | Best For                              | Requirements                |
| --------------- | ------------------------------------- | --------------------------- |
| Manual Upload   | Full control, modpacks, custom builds | SFTP access or file manager |
| Panel Installer | Speed and ease                        | Hosting panel support       |

***

Ready to switch your Minecraft server version? Pick your method and enjoy smooth version control!