Uploading Mods and Plugins#
This guide explains how to upload mods and plugins to your Minecraft server.
Understanding the Difference#
| Type | Server Software | Folder | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mods | Forge, Fabric | /mods |
Create, Biomes O' Plenty |
| Plugins | Paper, Purpur | /plugins |
EssentialsX, LuckPerms |
Important
Mods require modded server software (Forge/Fabric). Plugins require plugin-based software (Paper/Purpur). They are not interchangeable.
Where to Download#
Mods#
- Modrinth (recommended)
- CurseForge
Plugins#
Upload Steps#
Step 1: Access the File Manager#
- Go to your control panel and select your server
- Click Files in the sidebar
-
Navigate to the appropriate folder:
- For mods:
/mods - For plugins:
/plugins
- For mods:
Step 2: Upload Your Files#
Drag and drop your downloaded .jar files into the browser window. The panel displays upload progress automatically.
Step 3: Restart Your Server#
Your server must restart to load new mods or plugins.
Step 4: Verify Installation#
For plugins: Run the plugins command in your server console to see a list of loaded plugins.
For mods: Check your server logs for mod loading messages. Players will need the same mods installed on their clients.
Plugin Installer#
Non-modded servers (Paper, Purpur, etc.) have access to a built-in Plugin Installer for one-click plugin installation:
- Go to your server's control panel
- Click Plugins in the sidebar
- Browse or search for plugins
- Click Install on your desired plugin
Note
The Plugin Installer is only available for servers running compatible software like Paper or Purpur.
Compatibility Tips#
- Match versions: Download mods/plugins for your exact server version
- Check dependencies: Some mods/plugins require other mods/plugins to function
- Read documentation: Check the mod/plugin page for installation requirements
Client-Side vs Server-Side#
| Type | Client Needed? | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Server-side only | No | LuckPerms, Lithium |
| Client-side only | Yes (client only) | Optifine, shaders |
| Both sides | Yes | Most gameplay mods |
Troubleshooting#
Plugin shows red in /plugins list#
- Missing dependency
- Incompatible server version
- Configuration error (check logs)
Mod crashes server on startup#
- Version mismatch
- Missing required library
- Conflicting with another mod
Changes not taking effect#
- Did you restart the server?
- Is the file in the correct folder?
- Check file extension is
.jarnot.jar.zip