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Java version guide for Minecraft servers

The correct Java version is critical for Minecraft server compatibility. This guide gives general advice, but the final choice must follow the documentation of your server software, mod loader, and plugins/mods.

General recommendations by Minecraft version

The following summary is a generally safe reference, especially for Paper servers. For Forge, NeoForge, or Fabric, always check the official requirements of the relevant project.

Minecraft Commonly used Java
1.12 and below Java 8
1.13 - 1.16.4 Java 11
1.16.5 Java 16 or as required by the server software
1.17 - 1.19 Java 17
1.20+ Often Java 21 on modern Paper

Note

Paper's current documentation recommends Java 21 for Paper versions 1.20 through 1.21.11. Do not assume every server software follows the same rule.

Java vendors

On some hosting panels you may see several Java variants such as:

  • Temurin / OpenJDK
  • Zulu
  • GraalVM
  • various compat builds

Which one should you pick?

The safest choice

  • Use Temurin/OpenJDK or another common LTS build.
  • Pick the major version that matches your server software.

When to use a compat build

  • If old plugins or mods are only stable on a specific Java build.

When to be careful with GraalVM

  • If you have not tested plugin or mod compatibility.
  • If you are not sure you actually need that runtime.
  • If the plugins or mods you use have never been tested on it.

How to change the Java version in the panel

  1. Open https://panel.nexuscloud.id/.
  2. Select your server.
  3. Go to Startup.
  4. Find Java Version or Docker Image.
  5. Pick the matching Java version.
  6. Restart the server.

Troubleshooting

Server fails to start

  • check the error in the console
  • make sure the Java version matches the Minecraft version
  • check the documentation for Paper, Forge, Fabric, NeoForge, or the relevant mod/plugin

Plugin or mod error after changing Java

  • try going back to the previous Java version
  • check whether the plugin or mod actually supports the new Java version

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Cheers, Team NexusCloud