# How to Change Your Valheim Server Version (/docs/valheim/game-version)



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

Valheim doesn't expose a version picker in the panel — versions are managed via Steam's update system and beta branches. To get the latest version, reinstall the server. To run a specific version, use a Steam beta branch.

Update to the Latest Version [#update-to-the-latest-version]

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

    In the [XGamingServer Panel](https://panel.xgamingserver.com), go to **Backups** and create a backup. World saves are forward-compatible but **not backward-compatible**.
  </Step>

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

    Go to **Console** and stop the server.
  </Step>

  <Step>
    Reinstall [#reinstall]

    On the **Dashboard**, click **Reinstall Server**. This pulls the latest server files from Steam.

    {/* Screenshot needed: Dashboard with Reinstall Server widget */}
  </Step>

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

    Start from **Console** and verify the version in the startup log.
  </Step>
</Steps>

Use a Steam Beta Branch [#use-a-steam-beta-branch]

If you want to test the public test branch (PTB) or pin to an older version:

<Steps>
  <Step>
    Open Startup [#open-startup]

    Click **Startup** in the panel sidebar.
  </Step>

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

    Find the **Steam Beta Branch** variable and enter the branch name. Common branches:

    | Branch        | Description                              |
    | ------------- | ---------------------------------------- |
    | `(none)`      | Stable release                           |
    | `public-test` | Public test branch (next update preview) |
    | `default_old` | Previous stable version (when available) |
  </Step>

  <Step>
    Restart and reinstall [#restart-and-reinstall]

    Reinstall the server from **Dashboard** to download the selected branch.
  </Step>
</Steps>

Compatibility Notes [#compatibility-notes]

* **Forward compatibility:** Worlds created on older versions usually load on newer versions
* **Backward compatibility:** Worlds created on newer versions **may not load** on older versions — always back up before updating
* **Mods:** Mods built for older Valheim versions can break after updates. Check Thunderstore for updates after major patches

Related Guides [#related-guides]

* [Update Your Server](/docs/valheim/update-guide)
* [World Save Files](/docs/valheim/world-save-files)
* [Backup & Restore](/docs/valheim/backup-restore)