How to Install Mods and Plugins on Your Minecraft Server

Built-In Downloader

Your game panel has a built-in Mod, Modpack, and Plugin Downloader. This is the easiest way to install content on your server.

Installing via the Downloader

1. Log into your Pterodactyl game panel
2. Select your server
3. Open the Downloader tool
4. Browse or search for the mod, modpack, or plugin you want
5. Click Install
6. Restart your server

Plugins vs Mods — What's the Difference?

• Plugins run on Paper/Spigot servers. Players do NOT need to install anything on their side
• Mods run on Forge or Fabric servers. Players MUST install the same mods on their client
• Modpacks are bundles of mods packaged together. Both the server and players need the same modpack

Manual Upload

If the downloader does not have what you need, you can upload files manually:

Via File Manager (Small Files)

1. Go to the Files tab in your panel
2. Navigate to the plugins or mods folder
3. Click Upload and select your .jar file

Note: The File Manager has file size limitations. For larger files, use SFTP.

Via SFTP (Large Files)

1. Use an SFTP client like FileZilla
2. Connect using the SFTP credentials found in your panel's Settings tab
3. Upload files directly to the plugins or mods folder

Common Issues

• Server won't start after adding mods/plugins — Check the console for error messages. Usually a mod is incompatible with your server version. Remove the problematic file and restart
• "Mod version mismatch" — Ensure the mod version matches your Minecraft version AND your mod loader version
• Mods not loading — Verify you're using the correct server type. Plugins don't work on Vanilla/Forge. Mods don't work on Paper/Spigot. Use the Version Changer to switch if needed