How to change your Minecraft server's Java version
The Versions tab picks the right Java for you. If a server still needs a specific Java (Java 25 for 26.1+, Java 21 for 1.20.5–1.21.11), choose it in Startup → Docker Image.
- Difficulty:
- Beginner
- Time:
- 2 minutes
Every Minecraft version needs a minimum Java version. If Java is too old, the server stops right away with an error like UnsupportedClassVersionError or "requires running the server with Java 25 or above".
Most people never need to change Java. When you install software from the Versions tab, the correct Java is selected automatically. For example, a fresh Paper 26.3 server runs on Java 25 by itself, even though Java 21 Temurin is labelled "(Default)" in the Docker Image list. Change it by hand only for a custom jar, an uploaded server pack or an older modpack that needs a specific Java.
Which Java version do I need?
Minecraft version | Java version |
|---|---|
26.1 and newer (26.1, 26.2, 26.3…) | Java 25 |
1.20.5 – 1.21.11 | Java 21 |
1.18 – 1.20.4 | Java 17 (Java 21 also works on most 1.20.x servers) |
1.17 – 1.17.1 | Java 16 or 17 |
1.12 – 1.16.5 | Java 8 or 11 (modded servers usually need Java 8) |
1.11.2 and older | Java 8 |
In 2026 Mojang switched to year-based version numbers, so 26.1 came after 1.21.11. Newer Java versions usually also run older Minecraft from 1.18 on, but mods and older Forge versions can be strict, so match the table when in doubt. Velocity and other proxies have their own requirements; check their download page.
Steps
Click Stop in the Game Panel.
Open the Startup tab (under CONFIGURATION).
Open the Docker Image dropdown and choose the Java version from the table. The list has Java 25, Java 21 (Temurin, GraalVM or Corretto), Java 19 (Corretto), Java 17, Java 11 (Temurin, GraalVM or Corretto) and Java 8 (Temurin or Corretto). Temurin, Corretto and GraalVM are different builds of the same Java; if unsure, pick Temurin.
Click Start and watch the Console. The server should get past the point where it failed before.
Installed a new version and it fails with a Java error? Installing it again from the Versions tab (with Wipe Server Files off) should also select the right Java again.
Reading the error
The error often names a "class file version". It tells you which Java the server needs:
class file version 69.0→ Java 25class file version 65.0→ Java 21class file version 61.0→ Java 17
The other number in the message is the Java version you are running now.
Mods and plugins built for old versions may also need updating after a Java change. If one of them fails, update it from the Plugins or Mods tab.
Frequently asked questions
Do my players need to change Java too?
No. The official Minecraft launcher includes the right Java for players. This setting only affects your server.
Should I always pick the newest Java?
For Minecraft 26.1 and newer, use Java 25. For older versions, pick the version in the table. Very old Forge versions and some old mods break on newer Java.
The rest of the Startup tab is explained in Startup settings and Docker image. Still stuck? See Minecraft server won't start or open a ticket with the error from the console.
Was this article helpful?
Related articles
USA (Virginia) VPS are managed inside the billing panel from the Servers page, with Overview, Network, Access, Snapshots, Activity and Settings tabs. ARM plans can't run x86-only software.
Pick the right plan for your player count, plugins and modpacks — with a plan comparison table and chart.
Get a free short subdomain for Java players, connect your own domain, or ask for a dedicated IP so everyone can join without typing a port.
At panel.endercloud.in/account you can change your panel email, username and theme, set a password and 2FA, add SSH keys for SFTP, create API keys and check your account activity.
