Switch loaders without reinstalling
Want to move from Vanilla to Paper, try out plugins, or set up a Forge modpack? At game-serverhosting you switch version and loader directly in the panel. Treat it as a migration with a tested backup, server clone and rollback plan; preserving files alone does not guarantee a compatible world.
Step 1: Open the version switcher
Open your server and select the server version section. The dropdown lists every available loader: Vanilla, Paper, Purpur, Forge and Fabric. The currently active loader is highlighted.
Which loader for what?
| Loader | Best for |
|---|---|
| Vanilla | Pure Minecraft with no extensions |
| Paper / Purpur | Plugins (Spigot/Bukkit API), better performance |
| Forge | Mods (large modpacks) |
| Fabric | Modular mod loader; suitability and performance depend on the concrete mods and versions |
Step 2: Confirm the switch
After your selection a confirmation dialog appears. An existing world file can be carried over, but that does not prove a lossless migration: content mods can change registries, dimensions and block data. First create and test a backup, switch a server clone, verify worlds, dimensions, inventories and mod/plugin data, and keep a rollback ready.
Confirm the switch to start the process.
Step 3: Wait for the progress
After confirmation the technical switch runs automatically: the new loader is downloaded and installed. During this phase the panel shows a status and progress notice. A successful boot proves only the process; then verify worlds, dimensions, inventories and mod/plugin data on the clone.
Tip: back up first
Create a complete backup before every switch and perform a test restore. Switch a server clone first. Change the production world only after functional verification.
Summary
The version switcher automates the technical move between Vanilla, Paper, Purpur, Forge and Fabric. Backup, test restore, clone switch, functional verification and rollback remain required safeguards. If you switched to Paper, the next step worth reading is the guide on installing plugins.