Managing Your Minecraft Era
Minecraft is a game defined by its eras. From the classic 1.8.8 PvP builds to the latest 1.21+ updates, managing your server version is a core part of being a server owner.
| Reading Time | Difficulty | Last Updated |
|---|
| 5 minutes | Beginner | January 2026 |
Technical Requirements
Unlike standard Steam games that auto-update, Minecraft requires a specific Java runtime to match the game version. Using the wrong Java version will prevent your server from starting.
| MC Version | Recommended Java |
|---|
| 1.18 - 1.21+ | Java 17 or Java 21 |
| 1.17.x | Java 16 |
| 1.8 - 1.16.5 | Java 8 or Java 11 |
Step-by-Step Installation
1. Preparation & Backups
Switching versions—especially downgrading—can permanently corrupt your world files.
- Always create a Backup of your
/world/ directory before proceeding.
- If performing a “Clean Install,” use the Reinstall button in the Settings tab.
2. Changing the Java Environment
- Navigate to the Startup tab in your control panel.
- Locate the Docker Image dropdown.
- Select the Java version that matches your intended Minecraft version.
3. Updating the Server Software
You can update your server using the built-in version manager:
- In the Startup tab, locate the Server Version (or
VERSION) variable.
- Type your desired version (e.g.,
1.20.4, latest, or snapshot).
- Click Settings -> Reinstall. The panel will automatically fetch the correct JAR for you.
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Last Updated: January 2026 | Minecraft: Infinite possibilities.