Changing Server Version

Whether you want to update to the latest Minecraft release or switch to a different server software entirely, Witchly makes it straightforward. This guide covers both version changes and server software switches.

Understanding Server Software

Before changing anything, it helps to understand the different types of Minecraft server software available:

Vanilla

The official Minecraft server software from Mojang. No mod or plugin support. Best for a pure, unmodified experience.

Paper

A high-performance fork of Spigot with additional optimizations and bug fixes. Supports Bukkit and Spigot plugins. This is our recommended choice for most servers.

Spigot

A modified version of CraftBukkit with performance improvements. Supports Bukkit and Spigot plugins. Paper is generally preferred over Spigot for its better performance.

Purpur

A fork of Paper with even more configuration options and gameplay tweaks. Supports all Paper/Spigot/Bukkit plugins. Great for server owners who want maximum control over game mechanics.

Forge

The original modding platform for Minecraft. Required for Forge mods. Does not support Bukkit/Spigot plugins (use server-side Forge mods instead).

Fabric

A lightweight, modern modding platform. Known for fast updates and good performance. Does not support Bukkit/Spigot plugins or Forge mods — only Fabric mods.

Quilt

A fork of Fabric with additional features and a focus on inclusivity. Compatible with most Fabric mods and Quilt-specific mods.

Changing the Minecraft Version

To update or downgrade your Minecraft version:

1. Log in to your dashboard at Dashboard.
2. Select your Minecraft server.
3. Stop your server if it is running.
4. Navigate to the Startup tab.
5. Find the Minecraft Version field.
6. Enter the version you want (e.g., 1.21.4, 1.20.4, 1.19.4).
7. Click Save.
8. Start your server. The new version will be downloaded automatically.

Important Notes on Version Changes

• Back up your world first. Download your world folder before changing versions to avoid data loss. See our World Management guide.
• Upgrading is usually safe. Minecraft worlds are forward-compatible. Moving from 1.20 to 1.21 generally works without issues.
• Downgrading is risky. Moving to an older version can corrupt your world if it uses blocks or features from the newer version. Always back up first.
• Plugin and mod compatibility. Your existing plugins or mods may not support the new version. Check compatibility before upgrading.

Switching Server Software

Switching between different server software (e.g., from Vanilla to Paper, or from Paper to Forge) requires a reinstall:

1. Log in to your dashboard at Dashboard.
2. Select your Minecraft server.
3. Stop your server.
4. Back up your world and important files by downloading them through the File Manager or SFTP.
5. Navigate to the Startup tab.
6. Change the Server Software dropdown to your desired option.
7. Select the appropriate Minecraft Version.
8. Go to the Settings tab and use the Reinstall Server option.
9. After reinstallation, upload your world folder back if you want to keep your existing world.

Compatibility Between Server Software

Not all switches are straightforward. Here is what works:

From	To	Compatibility
Vanilla	Paper/Spigot/Purpur	Seamless. World carries over.
Paper	Spigot/Purpur	Seamless. All plugins work.
Spigot	Paper/Purpur	Seamless. All plugins work.
Paper/Spigot	Forge	World carries over, but plugins will NOT work. You need Forge mods instead.
Paper/Spigot	Fabric	World carries over, but plugins will NOT work. You need Fabric mods instead.
Forge	Fabric	World may carry over, but mods are incompatible. You need equivalent Fabric mods.
Fabric	Forge	World may carry over, but mods are incompatible. You need equivalent Forge mods.
Any	Vanilla	World carries over, but all mods and plugins are removed.

Key Differences: Plugins vs Mods

When switching server software, keep in mind:

• Bukkit/Spigot plugins work on Paper, Spigot, and Purpur. They do NOT work on Forge, Fabric, Quilt, or Vanilla.
• Forge mods only work on Forge servers. They are not compatible with Fabric, Quilt, or plugin-based servers.
• Fabric mods only work on Fabric (and usually Quilt) servers. They are not compatible with Forge or plugin-based servers.

Switching to a Modded Server

If you are switching from a plugin-based server (Paper/Spigot) to a modded server (Forge/Fabric):

1. Download your world folder as a backup.
2. Switch the server software and reinstall as described above.
3. Upload your world folder to the new server.
4. Install the mods you want (see Installing Mods and Plugins).
5. Make sure all players have the same mods installed on their client (for client-side mods).

Using Snapshots or Pre-Releases

To run Minecraft snapshot or pre-release versions, enter the snapshot version string in the version field (e.g., 24w46a). Keep in mind that snapshots are unstable and plugins or mods may not support them.

Need Help?

If you run into issues after changing versions or server software, check our Troubleshooting guide. For direct assistance, join our Discord.