How to install plugins on a Minecraft server
Paper or Purpur, where to put plugins, how to update them and what to do if a plugin doesn't load.
Plugins add commands, protected regions, economy and mini-games to a server — and players install nothing.
The right core
Plugins run on Paper or Purpur. In TCLauncher pick one of them when you create a server in the Server tab.
Installing
- Download the plugin jar for your game version.
- Put it into the server's
pluginsfolder. - Restart the server.
Its settings appear in plugins/<plugin name>.
The plugin doesn't work
- Look at the server console — the loading error is there.
- Check the plugin is for your version and its dependencies (e.g. Vault) are installed.
/pluginsshows what's loaded.
Download TCLauncher — it's free.
FAQ
Can I use plugins on Fabric or Forge?
No, modded servers use server-side mods instead of plugins.
Will plugins survive a server version update?
Usually yes, but check the plugin author supports the new version.