How to Change Your Server Software
How to safely switch your server software
How to safely switch your server software
Changing your server software is a great way to optimize your server's performance, install quality of life plugins, or transition to a modded experience. However, switching core files improperly can lead to corrupted worlds or lost data. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth and safe migration.
Back Up Your Server
Before making any changes to your server files, always create a complete backup.
If you are a premium user :
- Stop your server completely to prevent file corruption.
- Go into your server's file manager.
- Click on
Backups.
- Click
Create Backup.
If you are a freemium user :
- Stop your server completely to prevent file corruption.
- Go into your server's file manager.
- Click on
SFTP.
- Remember your SFTP credentials.

- Open your preferred SFTP client (e.g., WinSCP)
- Enter your SFTP credentials and log in.
- Download your server files into your computer.
For a more detailed explanation, please refer to our guide: How to Use SFTP with MCServerHost
Choosing Your Server Software
Your choice for server software depends on your gameplay:
Vanilla: The official Minecraft server software. choose Vanilla if you want the original Minecraft gameplay.
Paper: A performance focused server software with support for plugins. Choose Paper if you want to improve performance while using plugins.
Fabric: A lightweight modding platform. Choose Fabric if you want to use Fabric mods.
Forge: popular modding platform. Choose Forge if you want to use Forge mods.
NeoForge: A modern modding platform based on Forge. Choose NeoForge if you want to use NeoForge mods.
Choose the software that matches your needs.
Get New Software
After backing up your important server files, it's time to change your server software.
- Go to your server dashboard.
- Click on
Server Softwaretab.
- Select your preferred server software and version.

Start and Test the Server
Boot up the server, monitor the console for errors, and join the game to verify your world and player data loaded successfully.
Also if you are having any type of issue or problem with your server at MCServerHost you can always get in touch with us by joining our Discord server or writing us at support@mcserverhost.com.
Related guides
- How to Migrate your old MCServerHost account.: How to Migrate your old MCServerHost account to the new MCServerHost.
- How to Upload Files to Your MCServerHost Server: Learn how to upload files to your Minecraft server.
- Complete Guide to Server Snapshots on MCServerHost: Learn how MCServerHost Snapshots work, how they differ from backups, and how to create, manage, and restore them safely.
- How to Set Up PL-Hide on Your Minecraft Server: Stop players seeing your plugin list and clean up tab-completion of plugin commands.