Install Minecraft plugins

Check your server software

Plugins require compatible server software, such as Paper or another implementation of the Bukkit API. A vanilla Minecraft server does not load Bukkit plugins. Fabric and Forge use mods rather than Bukkit plugins.

Check both the Minecraft version and the server software supported by the plugin.

Back up and stop the server

Create a backup before installing new plugins. Stop the server completely before uploading or removing plugin files.

Download the plugin from its trusted publisher. Review any required dependencies and avoid running unknown JAR files.

Install and restart

Upload the plugin's JAR file to the plugins folder using the panel file manager or SFTP. Install its required dependencies there as well.

Start the server and read the console. Many plugins create configuration folders on their first successful startup.

Configure the plugin

Stop the server again before editing configuration files, unless the plugin documents a safe reload method. Preserve YAML indentation and restart to apply the changes.

If the plugin fails to load, check the console for a version mismatch, missing dependency, or configuration error. Restore your backup if the new plugin prevents startup.