Choosing Minecraft Server Software#

QualityNode offers multiple Minecraft server software options. This guide helps you choose the right one for your needs.

Overview#

Software	Best For	Supports
Paper	Large servers, plugins	Plugins
Fabric	Modern modding, performance	Mods
Forge/NeoForge	Classic modpacks	Mods
Pufferfish/Purpur	High-performance networks	Plugins
Vanilla	Pure Minecraft experience	None

Paper#

Paper is a high-performance fork of Spigot, optimized for plugin-based servers.

Strengths:

Excellent performance, capable of handling dozens to hundreds of players
Extensive plugin ecosystem via SpigotMC and Modrinth
Built-in optimizations and anti-cheat features
Enables Java-Bedrock crossplay with Geyser

Best for: Survival servers, minigame networks, and any server using plugins rather than mods.

Fabric#

Fabric is a lightweight modding platform focused on performance and modern Minecraft versions.

Strengths:

Superior performance and stability compared to Forge
Rapid updates for new Minecraft versions
Growing mod library on CurseForge and Modrinth
Optional pre-installed optimization mods

Best for: Modern modded servers prioritizing performance, especially with optimization mods like Lithium.

Tip

We recommend Fabric over Forge for new modded servers when your desired mods are available for both platforms.

Forge & NeoForge#

Forge is the original modding platform, with NeoForge as its modern successor.

Strengths:

Massive mod library spanning years of development
Most classic modpacks are built on Forge
One-click modpack installation from CurseForge

Considerations:

More resource-intensive than Fabric
Slower to update for new Minecraft versions

Best for: Playing established modpacks, using Forge-exclusive mods.

Pufferfish & Purpur#

These are Paper forks with additional performance optimizations and configuration options.

Strengths:

Enhanced performance for large player counts
More configuration options than Paper
Can support multiple hundreds of players when optimized

Best for: Large networks requiring maximum performance and customization.

Software to Avoid#

Caution

Avoid "hybrid" software like Mohist and Magma that attempt to combine mods and plugins. These often cause stability issues and potential world corruption. Choose either a mod-based or plugin-based platform.

How to Change Software#

Go to your server's control panel
Click Software in the sidebar
Select your desired software and version
Choose any available addons
Click Install

Your server will use the new software on its next startup.

Warning

When downgrading to an older Minecraft version, worlds generated in newer versions won't load. You'll need to delete the world folder or use a tool like Chunker for conversion.