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 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 (backed by CurseForge), or upload your own .jar files directly. Mods hosted only on other sites like Modrinth or Hangar are not in the browser, but you can download and upload them manually.
- 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:
