Direct answer

The level-name property names the primary save folder loaded at startup. It does not rename existing files or switch between multiple worlds while the server runs.

Recommended procedure

  1. Open server.properties only after a clean shutdown and make a copy of the existing property file.
  2. Set the desired path-safe directory name, for example level-name=survival. Keep the file in standard Java properties format.
  3. Confirm the matching save folder exists for an existing world; otherwise the server may generate a fresh one.
  4. Check the startup log for world-loading failures and stop immediately if the wrong save appears.

What to do next

Update any external backup scripts, hosting-panel settings, portal plugins and world-specific configuration that refer to the previous name.

How to verify the result

Check player data, structures, seed and dimensions after boot; verify backup jobs now capture the correct name.

Version and compatibility notes

Paper, Vanilla and modded platforms differ in dimension file structure; the primary name is not a complete multiworld manager. Never alter a live save directory while it is being written.

Official references

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