Installing Plugins & Mods
Customizing your server with plugins or mods allows you to change gameplay, add new items, or protect your builds. This guide covers installation for both.
Prerequisite: You must first change your server software to a type that supports your goal. See Changing Server Software.
- For Plugins: Use Paper or Purpur.
- For Mods: Use Forge or Fabric.
Installing Plugins (Paper/Purpur)
Plugins run entirely on the server. Players do not need to install anything on their end.
Step 1: Download the Plugin
Download the .jar file from a reputable source like SpigotMC or Modrinth. Ensure the plugin version matches your server version.
Step 2: Upload to Server
- Go to the Files tab in your panel.
- Open the
pluginsfolder. - Click Upload and select your downloaded
.jarfile.
Step 3: Restart
Restart your server to load the new plugin. Check the console for a startup message confirming it loaded successfully.
Installing Mods (Forge/Fabric)
Mods change the game code and usually render new blocks or items. Players must install the exact same mods on their computer to join.
Step 1: Download Mods
Get mods from CurseForge or Modrinth.
Crucial Check: The mod must match your specific Mod Loader (Forge vs Fabric) and Minecraft Version (e.g., 1.20.1).
Step 2: Upload to Server
- Go to the Files tab.
- Open the
modsfolder (created automatically after you start a Forge/Fabric server once). - Upload the mod
.jarfiles here.
Step 3: Client Installation
Remember to send the mod files to your players. They need to install the same Forge/Fabric loader and put the mods in their local %appdata%/.minecraft/mods folder.
Common Issues
- Server Crashing? Usually caused by mismatched versions or missing dependencies (e.g., a mod needs a library mod to work). Check the Console for error logs.
- Plugins not showing? Ensure you put them in the
pluginsfolder, not the root directory. - "Mismatched Mod Channel List": This error means the player has different mods than the server.
Recommended Essentials
- Plugins: EssentialsX (Core commands), Gryphon (Anti-cheat), WorldEdit (Building).
- Fabric Mods: Lithium (Performance), Ledger (Logging).
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