This guide explains how to install plugins on a Minecraft server. Plugins enhance server functionality, but they only work on servers that support them, such as Spigot, Paper, or Bukkit.
1. Verify Server Compatibility
Plugins do not work on a standard Vanilla Minecraft server. Ensure your server is one of the following:
- Spigot – A popular server type supporting plugins.
- Paper – Optimized version of Spigot, recommended for better performance and plugin compatibility.
- Bukkit – The original plugin-supporting server type.
If you are running a Vanilla server, you will need to switch to Spigot or Paper.
2. Download the Plugin
1. Visit a trusted plugin repository, such as:
- [SpigotMC Resources](https://www.spigotmc.org/resources/)
- [PaperMC Plugins](https://papermc.io/downloads)
2. Locate the plugin you want and download the .jar file.
3. Install the Plugin
1. Stop your server.
2. Navigate to your server directory.
3. Open the plugins folder. If it does not exist, create a folder named plugins.
4. Move the downloaded .jar plugin file into the plugins folder.
4. Start the Server
1. Launch your server.
2. The server will automatically load the plugin on startup.
3. Check the server console for any errors. If the plugin loads correctly, it will appear in the plugins list.
5. Configure the Plugin (Optional)
- Many plugins generate a configuration file (usually in /plugins.
- Open the configuration file to customize settings according to your needs.
6. Verify Plugin Functionality
- Use /plugins in the server console or in-game (with proper permissions) to see a list of active plugins.
- Test the plugin to ensure it works as expected.
Note: Always ensure plugins are compatible with your server version to prevent crashes or errors.