Select the correct Java version for your Minecraft server from the Game Control Panel. Using the wrong version will prevent your server from starting or cause compatibility issues with plugins and mods.
How to Change Your Java Version
- Log in to the Game Control Panel and select your server
- Navigate to Configuration > Server Options
- Find the Java Version dropdown
- Select the Java version your Minecraft version requires (see the table below)
- Restart your server for the change to take effect
Java Version Table
Use this table to match your Minecraft version to the correct Java version:
| Minecraft Version | Java Version |
|---|---|
| 1.8 - 1.11 | Java 8 |
| 1.12 - 1.16.5 | Java 11 |
| 1.17 - 1.17.1 | Java 16 |
| 1.18 - 1.20.4 | Java 17 |
| 1.20.5+ | Java 21 |
Troubleshooting
Server won’t start after changing Java version
The most common cause is selecting a Java version that’s too old for your Minecraft version. Check the table above and make sure you’ve selected the right one. After changing it, restart (not just stop/start) your server.
”Unsupported class file major version” error
This means a plugin or mod was compiled for a newer Java version than your server is running. Update your Java version to the one the plugin requires - the error message includes a version number that maps to Java versions (61 = Java 17, 65 = Java 21).
Modded servers and Java versions
Forge and Fabric sometimes have their own Java version requirements that differ from vanilla Minecraft. Check your modloader’s documentation if you’re unsure. As a general rule, use the newest Java version your modloader supports - there’s no downside to using a newer version when it’s compatible.