Resolving the “adb server version doesn’t match this client” Error

Resolving the "adb server version doesn't match this client" Error

10 November 2024 Stephan Petzl Leave a comment Tech-Help

The “adb server version doesn’t match this client” error is a common issue faced by developers when working with Android Debug Bridge (ADB). This error occurs when the version of the ADB server does not align with the client version, leading to connectivity problems between your development machine and the connected device or emulator. Below, we outline effective solutions to resolve this issue.

Solution 1: Sync ADB Versions

If you’re using an Ubuntu-based system, follow these steps to synchronize your ADB versions:


adb kill-server
sudo cp ~/Android/Sdk/platform-tools/adb /usr/bin/adb
sudo chmod +x /usr/bin/adb
adb start-server
      

This approach ensures that the correct ADB version is being used across your system.

Solution 2: Adjust GenyMotion Settings

For users utilizing GenyMotion, the error might stem from using its default ADB tools. To resolve this:

  • Navigate to GenyMotion settings.
  • Go to the ADB tab.
  • Choose “Use custom Android SDK Tools” and point to your installed SDK.

This will align GenyMotion with your Android SDK’s ADB version.

Solution 3: Remove Duplicate ADB Instances

Having multiple ADB versions can cause conflicts. To address this:

  • Identify all ADB instances on your system.
  • Ensure only the ADB in your Android SDK folder is retained.
  • Delete any other ADB files found in different directories.

This ensures that your system uses a single, consistent ADB version.

Solution 4: Restart ADB

For a straightforward fix, simply restart the ADB server:


adb kill-server
adb start-server
      

Reconnect your device or emulator afterward to check if the issue is resolved.

Enhancing Your Testing Workflow

While resolving ADB issues is crucial, optimizing your test automation process can further enhance efficiency. This is where Repeato can be of great assistance. Repeato is a no-code test automation tool for iOS and Android, offering a faster and more stable alternative to traditional tools like Appium. By utilizing computer vision and AI, Repeato simplifies the creation, execution, and maintenance of automated tests, making it an excellent choice for developers seeking a streamlined testing experience.

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