Will my plugins still work after I update the Minecraft version?
Updating your Minecraft version doesn't automatically update your plugins — and a big version jump often breaks older ones until their authors catch up. Here's what to expect and how to update cleanly.
Why plugins break on updates
Plugins are built for specific Minecraft versions. A big jump (e.g. 1.20 → 1.21) often breaks older plugins until the author releases an update. This is normal — it just means each plugin needs a matching build.
Steps after updating
- Update each plugin to the build that matches your new version.
- Start the server and watch the Console for "failed to load / incompatible" lines.
- Remove or update any plugin that errors.
Tip: Update plugins before or together with the version bump, and keep a backup (Back up now on the Backups page, or download via Files/SFTP) so you can roll back.
Frequently asked questions
Will all my plugins break? Not always — but a large version jump often breaks older ones until they're updated.
How do I spot a broken plugin? Watch the Console after starting for "failed to load" or "incompatible" messages, then update or remove that plugin.
More in Server Software & Versions
- How do I change or update my Minecraft server version?
- How do I switch server software (Vanilla ↔ Paper/Spigot/Purpur/Fabric/Forge)?
- Will changing version or software delete my world, plugins, or files?
- How do I run a custom or unlisted JAR (Waterfall, Velocity, Magma, a specific fork)?
- If I downgrade a version, will it corrupt or reset my world?
- The Versions tab won't load or says it can't install — how do I fix it?