Install plugins, mods and modpacks

How to choose the right server software, then add plugins, mods or a whole modpack.

Plugins and mods are different. Plugins run on servers like Paper and Purpur. Mods run on Fabric, Forge or NeoForge. You cannot mix the two types on one server, so pick the software first.

Step 0: back up first

Before you change anything, make a manual backup. If something goes wrong you can restore it in a few clicks. Your two backup slots are normally both in use, so delete one you no longer need first. See Backups.

Choose your server software with the Jar Picker

1. Log in to the game panel and open your server.
2. Open the Jar Picker page.
3. Choose the Jar type that fits what you want:

• Paper or Purpur for plugins.
• Fabric, Forge or NeoForge for mods.
• Vanilla for the plain game with no additions.
• Velocity (proxy) if you are linking several servers together.

1. Pick the Version. Match it to the plugins or mods you want to use. The Java version is chosen for you.
2. Leave Make a backup first (recommended) switched on unless you already have a fresh backup. If it fails because your backup slots are full, delete an old backup and try again.
3. Press Switch jar and confirm. The server stops, the new jar downloads and the server starts again. Your files, worlds and plugins stay in place.

Changing software on an existing world can cause problems, and going to an older Minecraft version can damage a world, so keep that backup safe.

Installing plugins

1. Make sure you are running Paper or Purpur.
2. Open the Minecraft Plugins page in the left menu.
3. Search for the plugin you want.
4. Install it. The panel picks a version that matches your Minecraft version.
5. Restart the server.
6. Check the console for errors. A healthy plugin lists itself as enabled.

To add a plugin that is not on that list, open the Files page, go into the plugins folder, upload the plugin's .jar and restart. Paper loads Bukkit and Spigot plugins.

Add plugins one or two at a time. If something breaks, you will know which one caused it.

Installing mods

1. Choose Fabric, Forge or NeoForge in the Jar Picker.
2. Open the Minecraft Mods page in the left menu to search and install mods. Or open the Files page, go to the mods folder and upload the mod files yourself.
3. Use only files made for your loader and Minecraft version.
4. Restart the server.

Players will need the same mods on their own computers to join.

Installing a modpack

The Modpacks page installs a Modrinth modpack and the right loader for you.

A modpack install replaces your server files. The panel makes a backup first, but your current worlds, plugins and configs are replaced by the pack. If you want to keep a world, download a backup copy first.

1. Open the Modpacks page.
2. Search for the modpack, then pick the pack and its version.
3. Tick the box to confirm that your current files will be backed up and replaced.
4. Press Install modpack and confirm. If the backup fails (for example because your backup slots are full), nothing is changed: delete an old unlocked backup and try again.
5. Wait for the install. The first start can take several minutes.

Modpacks need plenty of memory. Check the RAM guide to make sure your plan is big enough.

If something goes wrong

• Read the console for the error message.
• Remove the last thing you added and restart.
• Restore your backup if you need to.
• Still stuck? Open a ticket in the panel or use the contact form.