Update or downgrade a world's Minecraft version

Can I open my world on a newer or older Minecraft version?

Newer is supported (Minecraft converts it); older is not, and can corrupt the world, so always back up first.

Before you start: A backup of the world taken on the current version.

Step by step

1. Take a backup in the Backups tab and download it, so you can always go back.
2. To update, choose the newer version in Versions and start the server; chunks convert as they load.
3. Update every plugin or mod to a build for the new version at the same time.
4. Walk around the main areas afterwards to check nothing looks wrong before players join.
5. Going back to an older version is not supported: restore the backup made on the older version instead.
6. Test first on a copy (for example a Server Splitter sub-server) if the world is important.

Check it worked: The world loads and looks right on the new version.

Why it happens: Minecraft upgrades chunks forward but cannot convert them back.

More guides on Files, worlds, and uploads:

• Upload your own world
• Download your world or files
• Uploading large files or zip files
• Edit files in the browser, and undo a broken edit
• Disk full: see what uses space
• Run several worlds on one server