Java versions
Minecraft servers need specific versions of java to run properly. Here is our list of recommended Java releases:
| Server version | Java version | Download link |
|---|---|---|
| Forge / Fabric 1.16 and below | Java 8 | Download |
| Vanilla 1.16 and below Paper / spigot 1.16 and below Bungeecord / Waterfall | Java 11 | Download |
| Vanilla 1.17 and above Paper / spigot 1.17 and above Forge / Fabric 1.17 and above | Java 16 | Download |
| Vanilla 1.18 and above Paper / Spigot 1.18 and above Forge / Fabric 1.18 and above | Java 17 | Download |
| Vanilla 1.20.5 and above Paper / Spigot 1.20.5 and above Forge / Fabric 1.20.5 and above | Java 21 | Download |
For use with MCSS, choose the Windows x64 JRE .msi release of the version you need, then run the installer.
The Java 16 JRE isn't available anymore so use the Windows x64 JDK installer release instead.
Running different versions
If you run multiple servers that require different java versions, follow this guide to assign each server their correct java install