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# How to Make a Snapshot Minecraft Server

Setting up a snapshot Minecraft server is a great way to explore upcoming features before they’re officially released. Snapshots will rename your Minecraft experience and let you test new blocks, mechanics, and updates in a live multiplayer environment—perfect for curious players, content creators, or server admins preparing for the future. While they can be a bit unstable, running a snapshot server is simple once you know the steps.

By running a snapshot Minecraft server, here's a sneak peek at what you'll get:

* Early access to experimental features
    
* A chance to test compatibility with plugins or mods
    
* And a fun, preview-rich experience for your players

Let’s walk through how to make a snapshot Minecraft server.

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## Installing Your Minecraft Server's Snapshot Version

Backup your server before proceeding. Testing / Playing in versions that are not designed for actual gameplay can cause errors in the world.

* Visit the [Minecraft Snapshot Information and Changelogs KB Page](https://feedback.minecraft.net/hc/en-us/sections/360002267532-Snapshot-Information-and-Changelogs). This page contains a list of snapshots and release candidates, as well as the server jar downloads.
    
    ![](https://images.surferseo.art/7f5f4aa7-7247-4389-ad9c-32d1dd05b17f.png)
* Click the hypertext link under the "Cross-platform server jar". It will automatically start downloading the snapshot server jar.
    
* This is a vanilla server JAR. Bukkit/Spigot is not available in snapshots.
    
    ![](https://images.surferseo.art/efefe89a-ef1b-487c-887f-11101dea04ee.png)
* Click on the "Minecraft server jar" and the jar file will be installed

## Replacing Your Old Server Jar File

After downloading, head over to your server and click on the "File Manager" button.

* Remove the old `server.jar` by clicking the 3 dots and pressing on "Delete".
    
    ![](https://storage.crisp.chat/users/helpdesk/website/a79efd0b48a91800/msedgelcqto10vxo_ior3at.png)
* Upload the new `server.jar` file by clicking on the yellow upload button.
    
    ![](https://storage.crisp.chat/users/helpdesk/website/a79efd0b48a91800/upload_1qht5b.png)
* Once it has finished uploading, there is no need for a save button; it will be auto-saved. Head back into the console and start the server! The server should now be running!
    
    ![](https://images.surferseo.art/14fad9d0-6c4f-4287-8799-1ee76f46c73f.png)

Open your Minecraft launcher and have fun with your installation!

## Still have some questions about adding a snapshot version to your Minecraft server?

If you need any further instructions, you can file a ticket [here](https://billing.sparkedhost.com/submitticket.php)

By: Ali A.