How to Change Your Minecraft Bedrock Server Version
Switch between Bedrock server versions using the Version Changer in the XGamingServer panel, with guidance on version compatibility and downgrade risks.
Bedrock Dedicated Server versions must match the client version exactly — players on 1.21.50 cannot join a server running 1.21.40. Since Bedrock auto-updates on most platforms, you'll usually want to keep the server on the latest version.
Change the Server Version
Create a backup
In the XGamingServer Panel, go to Backups in the sidebar and create a backup. This is critical if you're downgrading.
Stop the server
Stop your server from Console.
Open Version Changer
Click Version Changer in the sidebar. This shows all available Bedrock server versions.
Select a version
Choose the version you want to run. Click to install it.
Start the server
Start from Console. The server will now run on the selected version.
If you don't see Version Changer in the sidebar, check Startup for a version or build variable instead.
Version Compatibility
| Scenario | Result |
|---|---|
| Upgrading (older → newer) | Safe. New features become available. Chunks load normally |
| Downgrading (newer → older) | Risky. Blocks and features from newer versions may be lost or cause errors. The world may fail to load entirely |
| Same major, different patch (1.21.50 → 1.21.51) | Usually safe in both directions |
| Different major (1.20.x → 1.21.x) | Upgrade is safe. Downgrade may corrupt the world |
BDS Version Format
Bedrock server versions follow the format major.minor.patch.revision (e.g., 1.21.50.7). The version must match the client exactly — even the patch number matters.
Why Players Can't Connect After an Update
Bedrock Edition auto-updates on Windows, mobile, Xbox, PlayStation, and Switch. When a new version releases:
- Players' games update automatically
- Your server is still on the old version
- Version mismatch → players can't join
Fix: Update your server to match. Use Version Changer or see the Update Guide.
On mobile (iOS/Android), players can disable auto-update in their app store settings to stay on the server's version temporarily.
Related Guides
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