Change the Minecraft version or server software (Paper/Spigot/Forge)

The Pelican panel exposes startup variables that control the Minecraft version and the server software. Editing them lets you move from Vanilla to Paper, or upgrade to a newer version.

Cause / The problem

Changing software or version requires editing the right variable in the panel, and sometimes switching to a different egg (configuration image). Worlds created on one version are not always compatible with another.

Solution

1. Take a backup before making any changes (tab Backups → Create Backup). Switching software can corrupt a world.
2. Change the Minecraft version in Pelican → Startup tab. The MINECRAFT_VERSION (or SERVER_VERSION) variable sets the version. Enter the new one (e.g. 1.21.4) and restart.
3. Change the server software via the SERVER_JARFILE or TYPE variable, depending on the egg. Official Pelican eggs cover:
   • Vanilla (raw Mojang server)
   • Paper (plugins, performant)
   • Spigot (plugins)
   • Forge / NeoForge / Fabric (mods)
4. Switch eggs if needed. Moving from a plugin server (Paper) to a modded server (Forge) requires a different egg. Contact the panel administrator, or reinstall the server with the new egg from the Settings tab.
5. Check world compatibility. A 1.20 world loads on a 1.21 server, but the reverse can corrupt chunks. For a downgrade, create a fresh world.
6. Reinstall plugins/mods matching the new version: a 1.20 plugin won’t work on a 1.21 server.

After the restart, the console shows the loaded software and Minecraft version. Make sure your players use the matching client.