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“Outdated server”, “Outdated client” and “Incompatible client! Please use 26.1” all mean the same thing: the player’s Minecraft version and the server’s version don’t match. Fix it by starting the game on the server’s version in the launcher, by changing the server’s version with Version Changer, or by installing ViaVersion so several versions can join.

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What do the version messages mean?

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How to find the server’s version

Open Version Changer. The status line shows what is installed, for example Currently installed: Paper 26.1.1 (#29). That number is the version players need.
Version Changer page in the FREAKHOSTING Game Panel with the currently installed server type and version and cards for each server type

Version Changer shows the installed version

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Fix 1: Play on the server’s version

1

Open the Minecraft Launcher

Go to Installations and click New installation.
2

Pick the version

Choose the server’s version, for example 26.1.1, and click Create.
3

Play

Click Play on that installation and join the server.
For a modded server, every player needs the same modpack or mod versions too. See install a modpack.

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Fix 2: Change the server’s version

If everyone has moved to a newer version, update the server.
1

Make a backup

Click Backups, then Create backup.
2

Pick the version

In Version Changer, click your server type, choose the new Minecraft Version and click Change Version. Leave Delete Server Files off to keep your world.
3

Update plugins or mods

Check Plugins or Mods > Installed > Check for updates. Old plugins may not load on a new version.
Only go to the same or a newer version with an existing world. Opening a world in an older version can corrupt it. See change your server version.

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Fix 3: Let several versions join with ViaVersion

On a Paper server, install ViaVersion from Plugins so newer clients can join. Add ViaBackwards for older clients. See ViaVersion.

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Frequently asked questions

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Why does it say outdated server when I just updated?

Your game is newer than the server. Either play on the server’s version, update the server with Version Changer, or install ViaVersion.

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Bedrock players see “Outdated client” or “Outdated server”. What now?

That is a Geyser version issue. Players update Minecraft Bedrock, and you update Geyser on Plugins > Installed. See GeyserMC.

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Which version should my server run?

The version most of your players use. For modpacks, the version the pack is made for.

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What do the 26.x version numbers mean?

Minecraft moved to year-based versions after 1.21.11, so 26.1 is a 2026 release that comes after 1.21.11. Version Changer lists both the new and older versions.

Minecraft server guide

Every Minecraft guide in one place.

Change your server version

Version Changer step by step.

ViaVersion

Let several versions join.

Can't connect

Other connection errors.
Reviewed by the FREAKHOSTING team on 29 October 2026. Game Panel steps were checked on our panel (Minecraft 26.1, Paper and Fabric); game and plugin details follow their official documentation. Steps may differ slightly if the game or its plugins change.

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Need Extra Help?

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Last Updated: October 2026