> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://b-setups.gitbook.io/b.-setups/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://b-setups.gitbook.io/b.-setups/information/common-issues/java-version-check-and-update-install-guide.md).

# Java Version Check and Update/Install Guide

This guide will show you how to check your current Java version and update it if needed.

***

## 1.  Open Command Prompt

Press **Windows + R**, type `cmd`, and press **Enter**.

<div align="left"><figure><img src="/files/d8mA2piedHCTRohq7zIF" alt="" width="353"><figcaption></figcaption></figure></div>

## 2. Check Your Java Version

Type the following command and press **Enter**:

```none
java --version
```

If java is installed, you will see something like this:

<figure><img src="/files/GEgzEM0h6PpqlrqLfYAf" alt=""><figcaption><p>Note: This system doesn't need an update since it has Java 25 installed.</p></figcaption></figure>

{% hint style="warning" %}
If it says **17.x.x** or lower, you will need to update to Java 21 for Minecraft 1.20.5+ servers, or **Java 25** for **Minecraft 26.1+** servers.
{% endhint %}

### If You See an Error Instead

If the Command Prompt shows this message:

```none
'java' is not recognized as an internal or external command,
operable program or batch file.
```

This means **Java is not installed** or not added to your system **PATH**.

You will have to download and install Java.

***

## 3. Download and Install Java 25

Go to the [Oracle Java SE Downloads](https://www.oracle.com/java/technologies/javase/jdk21-archive-downloads.html) and download the **Windows Installer** for **Java 25**.

<figure><img src="/files/HdBzPIcqADPtHliec8qz" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Run the installer and finish setup.

<div align="left"><figure><img src="/files/8r6geNIWY9XMztVk9ynv" alt=""><figcaption><p>Click Next</p></figcaption></figure> <figure><img src="/files/mJV4fy90mWyXyx1OroIf" alt=""><figcaption><p>Click Next</p></figcaption></figure> <figure><img src="/files/48rrUIOI0Qhvhnm4vmvq" alt=""><figcaption><p>Click Close</p></figcaption></figure></div>

## 4. Verify Installation

After installation, open **Command Prompt** again and type:

```none
java --version
```

<figure><img src="/files/GEgzEM0h6PpqlrqLfYAf" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

If the output shows **Java 25.x.x**, then your installation/update was successful.