How to Change the Java Version of Your Minecraft Server
Updated on July 31, 2026
Does your Minecraft server fail to start after installing or changing the server software? This is often caused by using the wrong Java version. In the console, you will usually see an error message such as Minecraft 1.19 requires running the server with Java 17 or above. In this guide, we explain step by step which Java version you need and how to change it for your Minecraft server at ConsulHosting.
Changing the Java version
- Log in to the game panel and go to your Minecraft server.
- Go to the Settings page.
- Under Docker Image, click the current Java version, such as
Java 21. A drop-down menu will open. - Select the correct Java version based on the Minecraft version you are using:
|
Java version |
Compatible Minecraft version(s) |
|---|---|
|
25 |
26.1 and newer |
|
21 |
1.20.5 through 1.21.11 |
|
17 |
1.17 through 1.20.4 |
|
16 |
1.16.5 |
|
11 |
1.12 through 1.16.4 |
|
8 |
1.8 through 1.11 |
- Finally, start the Minecraft server using the green start button.
Tip Is the server still not starting? Check the console for error messages related to Java, the server software, plugins, or mods. Modpacks and mod loaders may require a different Java version.