Will changing version or software delete my world, plugins, or files?

Worried that changing your version or software will wipe your world? The short answer is no — the Software page keeps your world. There are two cautions worth knowing, though.

What's kept and what to watch

The Software page keeps your world, and any files it replaces are moved to a _previous folder (there's no "Wipe Data" box). Two cautions:

• Downgrading the Minecraft version can corrupt worlds (Minecraft worlds aren't backward-compatible). Back up first.
• Switching software families (Forge ↔ Paper) leaves your files, but your mods won't load on Paper, and plugins won't load on Forge — you'll re-add the right kind.

Backing up first

Always take a backup before a version or software change:

1. Open your server → Backups and click Back up now.
2. For an extra copy, open Files (or connect via SFTP).
3. Download your world folder to your computer.
4. Proceed with the change from the Software page.

Warning: Downgrading is the risky direction — always make a backup (Back up now, or download your world folder via Files/SFTP) before changing versions.

Frequently asked questions

Does the Software page delete my files? No — your world is kept, and files it replaces are moved to a _previous folder.

Why won't my mods work after switching to Paper? Mods only run on Forge/Fabric; plugins only run on Paper/Spigot. Your files stay, but you re-add the right add-on type.