How to Downgrade/Change Minecraft Version for a Server
Many servers run a specific version — sometimes older than your current one. You can switch (or downgrade) your Minecraft version safely using the official launcher. Here's the exact process.
You don't need to reinstall
The official Minecraft launcher keeps every version you've played as a separate “installation.” Switching is just picking a different profile — your worlds and saves stay put (though older versions may not open newer worlds). Check the server's required version on its detail page first.
Steps in the Java launcher
- Open the Minecraft launcher and go to the Installations tab.
- Click New Installation.
- Under “Version,” open the dropdown and pick the exact release the server wants (e.g.
1.21.4or1.8.9). - Name it, save, and select it from the play dropdown before hitting Play.
A note on modded servers
If the server uses Forge or Fabric mods, you'll need that mod loader installed in the profile too — the server usually links the exact loader version. For vanilla servers, the base game version is enough.
Find servers by version
Our server list has a version filter so you can pick a community that matches whatever client you're on — whether that's the latest or a classic like 1.12.
Reviewed by the MC Monitor Editorial Team. Our editorial team researches server listings, verifies live status data, and keeps these guides current. Last review: June 2026.