Learn how to install mods and plugins on your Minecraft server using the WDC GameGrid mod manager. GameGrid offers all five Minecraft server types - Vanilla, Paper, Fabric, Forge, and NeoForge. Mods run on Fabric, Forge, and NeoForge; Paper runs Bukkit/Spigot plugins; Vanilla has no mod support. For the modded types and Paper, the mod manager offers one-click installation from CurseForge, Nexus Mods and Modrinth (and Hangar on Paper) with automatic compatibility checking, and you can also upload your own .jar files.
Supported Server Types
| Server Type | Adds mods/plugins? | Installation |
|---|---|---|
| Vanilla | No mod support | Plain Minecraft server |
| Paper | Bukkit/Spigot plugins | One-click plugins via the mod manager, or upload a .jar |
| Fabric | Fabric mods | One-click mods via the mod manager, or upload a .jar |
| Forge | Forge mods | One-click mods via the mod manager, or upload a .jar |
| NeoForge | NeoForge mods | One-click mods via the mod manager, or upload a .jar |
You choose the server type when you create the server. Each type is a separate server; to move an existing world to a different type, create a new server of that type and copy your world across with the File Manager.
How to Install Mods
- Open your server dashboard - Navigate to your Minecraft server in the WDC GameGrid control panel.
- Go to the Mods tab - Click the "Mods" tab in your server's control panel.
- Confirm your server type - Mods need a Fabric, Forge, or NeoForge server; plugins need Paper. Vanilla servers do not support mods or plugins.
- Browse or upload - Search the built-in mod browser (CurseForge, Nexus Mods and Modrinth; Paper also offers Hangar), or upload your own .jar files directly.
- Click install - The mod manager handles everything: downloading, placing files in the correct directory, and checking version compatibility.
- Restart your server - After installation, restart your server to load the new mods.
Tips for a Smooth Modding Experience
- Check version compatibility - Make sure mods are compatible with your server's Minecraft version and server type.
- Install mods one at a time - If something breaks, you'll know exactly which mod caused the issue.
- Keep backups - Always create a backup before installing new mods. Our backup system makes this easy.
- Watch for mod conflicts - Some mods modify the same game mechanics. If you see crashes, try removing recently-added mods.
Common Issues
- Mod not loading - Check that the mod is compatible with your server type and Minecraft version. See our plugin not loading guide for troubleshooting.
- Server won't start after installing mods - Remove the mod and check the server console for error messages. See our server won't start guide.
Learn More
For detailed, step-by-step guides for each server type, visit our Minecraft knowledge base:
