Set a Specific Minecraft Java Version in the Launcher

Step-by-Step Guide for Setting Up Minecraft on the Launcher
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Why set a specific version? Some servers (including ENDOS SMP) run a fixed Minecraft version. If your Launcher is on a different release, you may see "Incompatible Client" or fail to connect. Creating a profile for a specific version (e.g., 1.21.x) lets you join smoothly today and switch back to the latest version anytime.

Before you start

  • This guide is for Minecraft: Java Edition on PC using the official Minecraft Launcher.
  • Make sure you’re signed in with your Microsoft account in the Launcher.
  • Check the version used by ENDOS SMP in your welcome email or server info.

Step-by-step: create a 1.21.x profile

  1. Open the Minecraft Launcher
    • Start the Launcher from your desktop or Start menu.
    • Confirm you’re signed in with your Microsoft account.
  2. Go to the Installations tab
    • Click Installations at the top. This is where you manage different game versions.
  3. Create a new installation
    • Click New Installation to make a profile specifically for 1.21.x.
  4. Name your installation
    • Use something clear like “Minecraft 1.21.x – ENDOS SMP” so you recognize it later.
  5. Select the version
    • Open the Version dropdown and pick release 1.21.x (match the server’s exact sub-version if specified).
    • Be sure you choose that release—not “Latest Release”—if they’re different.
  6. Optional: separate game directory
    • If you want distinct saves/resource packs, set a custom Game Directory for this profile.
  7. Optional: memory settings
    • Under More Options you can adjust JVM Arguments to allocate more RAM. Only change this if you know what you’re doing.
  8. Save the installation
    • Click Create or Save. Your 1.21.x profile is now ready.
  9. Launch Minecraft 1.21.x
    • Go to the Play tab. Use the dropdown next to the green Play button to select your new profile.
    • Click Play to start the game in version 1.21.x.
  10. Optional: confirm in-game
    • On the title screen (bottom-left), confirm it says Minecraft 1.21.x.

Connect to ENDOS SMP

  1. From the main menu, click MultiplayerAdd Server.
  2. Name it ENDOS SMP and paste the server address from your welcome email.
  3. Click Done, select ENDOS SMP, and Join Server.

Troubleshooting version mismatch

  • Still incompatible? Double-check you launched the correct profile (1.21.x) and not “Latest Release.”
  • Server updated? If ENDOS SMP advances to a new version, edit your installation and pick the new release.
  • Auth/connection issues? Log out/in via the Launcher, then retry. Verify your internet/firewall settings.

Your custom profile remains saved, so you can quickly switch between 1.21.x for ENDOS SMP and any other version from the Launcher.