Fix "Outdated client" and "Outdated server" in Minecraft
Fix Minecraft Outdated client and Outdated server messages by matching versions, picking the right launcher profile, or adding ViaVersion to Paper.
Updated · 2 min read
"Outdated client" and "Outdated server" mean the player's Minecraft version is different from the server's. Either the player switches to the server's version, the server is updated, or, on Paper, you install ViaVersion so other versions can join.
What each message means
| Message | Meaning |
|---|---|
Outdated client! Please use 1.21.1 | The player's game is older than the server. |
Outdated server! I'm still on 1.20.4 | The player's game is newer than the server. |
Incompatible client! Please use 1.21.1 | Versions differ in another way, depending on the version. |
The server list may also show the server's version in red with a "client out of date" or "server out of date" note.
Fix 1: the player switches version
The simplest fix for one player:
- Open the Minecraft Launcher.
- Go to Installations and create a new installation.
- Choose the version the server runs, save, and play with that installation.
Ask what version the server runs, or run /version in the console, which prints it.
Fix 2: update the server
If most players are on the latest Minecraft version, update the server to match. Before updating:
- Take a snapshot.
- Check every plugin or mod has a build for the new version.
- Match Java to the new version. See Java version mismatch.
Fix 3: let several versions join with ViaVersion (Paper)
On Paper, these plugins translate between game versions:
| Plugin | Lets in |
|---|---|
| ViaVersion | Newer clients joining an older server. |
| ViaBackwards | Older clients joining a newer server. Requires ViaVersion. |
| ViaRewind | Very old clients (1.7 and 1.8). Requires both above. |
Install them like any plugin: upload the jars to plugins and restart. On a BungeeCord network, install ViaVersion on the proxy or the backends, not both.
Keep in mind:
- Players on a newer client cannot use blocks and items that do not exist on the server version.
- Very large version gaps can cause visual glitches.
- Keep ViaVersion updated. A new Minecraft release usually needs a new ViaVersion build before those players can join.
Modded servers
On a Forge server, ViaVersion is not the answer. Players must use exactly the same Minecraft version, Forge version and mods. See mod and version mismatch errors.
Snapshots and pre-releases
Players on a snapshot or pre-release (test versions) cannot join a release server, and the other way around. They need to switch to the matching release installation in the launcher.