ViaVersion allows the newer Java clients it supports to talk to the legacy server protocol. Verify target client and server versions against the support table before installing.
Step by step
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Download the ViaVersion version appropriate for the platform of the server or proxy. Make the distribution in a single plan according to your network topology.
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Put the plugin in the correct folder and reboot regularly. Check the server protocol detected by ViaVersion in the log.
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First, log in with the client on your own version of the server. Then try the same scenario with a newer Java client listed in the support table.
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Test in-game movement, inventory, custom menus and plugin messages. Using the version tag in the server list as the only verification.
Keep in mind
ViaVersion does not add new blocks and mechanics to the old server. Geyser for Bedrock support is a separate component.