July 13, 2025 3 minutes minutes read Dr. Aadil Gamer

How to Use ViaBackwards: Let Older Minecraft Clients Join Your New Server

Discover how to install and configure the ViaBackwards plugin to allow players on older Minecraft versions to join your updated server. Step-by-step guide with images to keep your community together without sacrificing new features.

How to Use ViaBackwards Minecraft Plugin

Running a Minecraft server often means facing a difficult question: should you always update to the latest version, or keep supporting players on older versions? With the ViaBackwards plugin, you can do both! This plugin allows players from older versions of Minecraft to join your newer server, keeping your community together.

Step 1 – Download ViaBackwards

First, visit the official ViaBackwards plugin page.

ViaBackwards Plugin Download Page

Make sure you download the correct version that matches your server. ViaBackwards usually works best alongside ViaVersion, so consider adding that too.

Step 2 – Upload the Plugin to Your Server

Once downloaded, upload the ViaBackwards .jar file to your server's plugins folder.

Uploading ViaBackwards to Server Plugins Folder

After uploading, restart your server to activate the plugin.

Step 3 – Verify Installation

Check your server console to ensure ViaBackwards loaded without errors.

Server Console After Startup

If everything is correct, you should see a success message.

Step 4 – Join with Older Clients

Ask a friend or use an older Minecraft version yourself to join the server.

In-game Join Screen from Lower Version

Players on older versions (as far back as 1.9, depending on the plugin version) should now be able to connect smoothly.

🎉 Conclusion

Thanks to ViaBackwards, you can keep your Minecraft server updated while still welcoming players who haven't updated yet. It's an essential plugin for any community that values flexibility and inclusivity.

If you have any questions or issues, check the official documentation or community forums.

Happy gaming!