# How to Update Your SCP: Secret Laboratory Server (/docs/scp-secret-laboratory/update-your-server)



SCP: Secret Laboratory clients can only join a server running a **matching game version**. When Northwood ships a game update, your server must update too or players on the new version won't be able to connect.

On XGamingServer (managed) [#on-xgamingserver-managed]

Your server runs from a Pterodactyl egg that pulls the SCP:SL dedicated server via SteamCMD, so updating is simple:

1. Open your server in the [XGamingServer panel](https://panel.xgamingserver.com).
2. **Stop** the server.
3. Trigger an update — restarting the server re-runs the install/update step and pulls the latest SCP:SL build. (If you have a dedicated **Reinstall** option under Settings, that also forces the newest version.)
4. **Start** the server and confirm the version in the console matches the live game.

<Callout type="info">
  Your world, configs and admin setup live in `/config` and are not wiped by a game update — only the server binaries are refreshed.
</Callout>

After a major game version (e.g. 14.x) [#after-a-major-game-version-eg-14x]

Big versions can change config options and the plugin framework. After a major update:

* Check your **plugins** still support the new version — SCP:SL 14.1+ uses [LabAPI](/docs/scp-secret-laboratory/install-plugins), the official plugin loader. Plugins built for an old framework may need updating.
* Review `config_gameplay.txt` and `config_remoteadmin.txt` for any new or renamed keys.
* Re-verify your server if verification dropped (see the techwiki verification guide).

Why staying current matters [#why-staying-current-matters]

* **Players can't join an outdated server** — the version must match.
* **Verified server list** — outdated or unverified servers may not appear in the public browser.
* **Security & fixes** — updates include anti-cheat and stability fixes.

<Callout type="warn">
  Enable **automatic restarts/updates** where possible so your server refreshes on its own after a game patch — otherwise your server can silently fall behind and empty out when a new version drops.
</Callout>

Need help after an update? Open a ticket from the [panel](https://panel.xgamingserver.com) with your server console output.