Minecraft: Resetting the world or starting a new one

You want to start over without losing plugins, permissions and settings? Then only swap the world.

Java (Paper, Purpur, Vanilla …)

1. Stop the server.
2. In the Files tab, rename the folder world, e.g. to world_old. On older Minecraft versions there are also world_nether and world_the_end – rename those too.
3. Optionally enter a new seed: Settings tab → Seed.
4. Start the server. Minecraft generates a completely new world.

On newer versions (e.g. Minecraft 26.x), the Nether and End are in the same world folder (under world/dimensions) – then renaming world is enough.

Bedrock

In the Settings tab, enter a new World name and restart. Bedrock then generates a new world; the old one stays in the worlds folder.

Good to know

• Rename instead of delete: That way you can go back any time – just rename the folders back. If you're sure you no longer need the old world, delete it later to free up storage.
• Back up first: A backup is quick and never hurts.
• Players' inventories and progress belong to the world – with the new world everyone starts from scratch. Ranks and permissions (e.g. LuckPerms) are kept.
• Your own world from your PC instead of a new one? How to upload it.