# How to Change the Game Version on Your 7 Days to Die Server (/docs/7-days-to-die/game-version)





import { Step, Steps } from 'fumadocs-ui/components/steps';

Change the Version [#change-the-version]

<Steps>
  <Step>
    Stop the server [#stop-the-server]

    In the [XGamingServer Panel](https://panel.xgamingserver.com), go to **Console** and stop the server.
  </Step>

  <Step>
    Create a backup [#create-a-backup]

    Go to **Backups** and create a backup. World saves are generally not backward compatible.
  </Step>

  <Step>
    Set the beta branch [#set-the-beta-branch]

    Click **Startup** in the sidebar. Find the **BETA BRANCH** field and enter the branch name:

        <img alt="Startup tab showing Beta Branch field" src={__img0} placeholder="blur" />
  </Step>

  <Step>
    Reinstall [#reinstall]

    On the **Dashboard**, click **Reinstall Server** to download the new version.
  </Step>

  <Step>
    Start the server [#start-the-server]

    Start from **Console**. All players must run the same version.
  </Step>
</Steps>

Common Beta Branches [#common-beta-branches]

| Branch Name           | Version                            |
| --------------------- | ---------------------------------- |
| *(empty)*             | Latest stable release              |
| `latest_experimental` | Latest experimental/unstable build |

> Available branches change over time. Check Steam's Beta tab for the current list.

Important [#important]

* **Always back up** before changing versions
* **World saves are not backward compatible** — downgrading may corrupt the save
* **All players must match** the server version
* **Check mod compatibility** before switching — mods may not support the target version

Related Guides [#related-guides]

* [Update Your Server](/docs/7-days-to-die/update)
* [Backup & Restore](/docs/7-days-to-die/backup-restore)
* [Mod Installation](/docs/7-days-to-die/mod-setup)