Guide to ViaVersion: How to Allow Any Minecraft Version on Your Server

One of the biggest challenges for any Minecraft server owner is the dreaded "Outdated client" or "Outdated server" error. You've updated your server to the latest 1.20 version, but your friends who love 1.8 PvP can no longer join. Or perhaps you want to stay on a stable 1.19 build but don't want to exclude players who have already updated.

What if you could break down that version barrier and welcome everyone?

That's exactly what ViaVersion does. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to make your server compatible with multiple Minecraft versions, significantly expanding your potential player base.

What is ViaVersion and Why Do You Need It?

ViaVersion is a free, open-source server plugin that acts as a protocol translator. In simple terms, it sits on your server and translates the communication between a player's client and your server, allowing a player on a different Minecraft version to connect and play.

The primary use case: You run your server on the latest stable Minecraft version (e.g., 1.20.4), and you want to allow players using older clients (e.g., 1.19, 1.16, 1.12, even 1.8) to join.

Here’s why it’s an essential plugin for almost any public server:

• Maximizes Your Player Base: Don't force players to switch versions. Welcome everyone, whether they prefer the combat mechanics of 1.8 or the new features of the latest update.
• Increases Convenience: Players can join with whatever version they have launched, reducing the friction to get onto your server.
• Future-Proofs Your Server: When a new Minecraft version is released, you can wait to update your server core while still allowing players on the newest client to join.

How to Install and Configure ViaVersion (Step-by-Step)

Setting up ViaVersion is incredibly simple. It’s designed to work right out of the box with minimal configuration.

Prerequisites:

• A Minecraft server running on Spigot, Paper, Purpur, or any of their forks.
• Access to your server's /plugins folder.

1. Download the Plugins
   First, you need the plugin files. You can find all the necessary .jar files in the Downloads section at the bottom of this article. For the basic setup, just grab the main ViaVersion file.
2. Install the Plugin
   Upload the downloaded ViaVersion.jar file directly into your server's /plugins folder. You can do this using an SFTP client (like FileZilla) or your hosting panel's file manager.
3. Restart Your Server
   For the plugin to load correctly, you must perform a full server restart. A /reload command is not recommended as it can cause issues with many plugins.

That's it! By default, ViaVersion is now active. However, to unlock true cross-version compatibility and allow older clients to join, you'll need its powerful companions.

Expanding Compatibility: ViaBackwards and ViaRewind

ViaVersion itself only allows newer clients to join older servers. To allow older clients to join your newer server (the most common goal), you need to add two more plugins to the family.

Here's how they work together:

• Your Server Core: This is the version you are running (e.g., Paper 1.20.4).
• ViaVersion: The base plugin. It's required for the others to work.
• ViaBackwards: An add-on that allows players from older versions to join, down to version 1.9. (e.g., a 1.9 client joining your 1.20.4 server).
• ViaRewind: An add-on for ViaBackwards that adds support for the legendary 1.7 and 1.8 versions, which are critical for the PvP community. (e.g., a 1.8 client joining your 1.20.4 server).

The Ultimate Setup for Maximum Compatibility:

To support versions from 1.8 to the latest, you need to install all three plugins. Head to the Downloads section below and get these files:

1. ViaVersion
2. ViaBackwards
3. ViaRewind

Place all three .jar files into your /plugins folder and restart your server. You now have a server that can be joined by the vast majority of the Minecraft player base!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Does ViaVersion cause server lag?
A: ViaVersion is highly optimized. While it does add a tiny amount of processing overhead to translate packets, on any decent server hardware, the performance impact is negligible and will not be noticeable.

Q: Are these plugins free?
A: Yes, ViaVersion and its companion plugins are completely free and open-source.

Q: Do my players need to install anything?
A: No. These are all server-side plugins. Your players don't need to install any mods or special clients.

Conclusion

ViaVersion is more than just a plugin; it's a gateway to creating a more accessible and popular Minecraft server. By removing version barriers, you create a more welcoming environment for all players. The installation is effortless, the performance impact is minimal, and the benefit is enormous.