How to Install Minecraft Plugins (Paper/Spigot)

Steps

1. Confirm the server is Paper or Spigot (console banner).
2. Stop the server (safer for multi-jar drops).
3. Upload PluginName.jar into plugins/ via File Manager or SFTP.
4. Start the server. Watch for red stack traces.
5. Join as op and run /plugins.

Config files

First boot creates plugins/PluginName/config.yml. Edit, then restart or use the plugin's reload command if documented.

Safety

• Download jars only from trusted sources (Modrinth, Hangar, SpigotMC, official sites).
• Backup before adding economy/permission plugins that touch player data.

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Related guides

• Paper vs Forge vs Fabric
• Won't Start
• Backups

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where do jars go?

Into the plugins/ folder on Paper/Spigot — not mods/.

Plugin supports a newer MC version only?

Mismatch causes boot errors. Match plugin API to your server version.

Do I need to restart?

Most plugins need a full restart; /reload is risky — prefer restart.

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Need help?

If you are stuck after following this guide, open a ticket from the Chapter22 client area with the exact error, the port or DNS change you made, and whether the service listens locally (ss / Resource Monitor) but fails externally.

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