How to Install Plugins on Your Minecraft Server (Paper/Spigot/Bukkit)

Overview

Plugins are files that add new features, commands, and mechanics to your Minecraft server, allowing you to create a truly unique experience. To use plugins, your server must be running a compatible server type, such as Paper, Spigot, or CraftBukkit. The default "Vanilla" server provided by Mojang cannot run plugins.

This guide will show you how to easily upload and install plugins on your ValueGameNode Minecraft server.

Prerequisites

• A server running a plugin-compatible version of Minecraft (Paper, Spigot, etc.).
• The plugin .jar file you wish to install, downloaded from a reputable source like SpigotMC.org, BukkitDev, or the plugin author's official GitHub page. Or you can use our built in plugin manager.

Warning: Always download plugins from official sources. Files from other sites could contain malicious code that can harm your server or compromise your data.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Log into the Game Control Panel

Navigate to our custom game panel at game.vgncloud.com and log in with your account credentials. From the server list, select the Minecraft server you want to modify.

Step 2: Access the File Manager

On the left-hand navigation bar, click on File Manager. This will give you access to all of your server's files and folders.

Step 3: Open the 'plugins' Folder

Inside the File Manager, you will see a list of folders. Locate and click on the plugins folder to open it.

Note: If you do not see a plugins folder, it's likely because you have not yet run a plugin-compatible server type (like Paper or Spigot) at least once. Start and then stop your server to ensure the folder is generated.

Step 4: Upload Your Plugin

1. Once you are inside the plugins folder, click the Upload button located in the top-right of the file manager.
2. A file selection window will appear. Navigate to where you saved your downloaded plugin .jar file on your computer and select it.
3. The upload will begin automatically. Wait for it to complete. You should see the .jar file appear in the plugins folder.

Step 5: Restart Your Server

For the server to recognize and load the new plugin, a full restart is required.

1. Navigate to the Console tab in the left-hand navigation menu.
2. Click the Restart button at the top of the console interface.
3. Wait for the server to fully shut down and start back up. You can monitor the progress in the console.

Step 6: Verify the Plugin is Working

Once your server is back online, you can verify that the plugin was installed correctly.

1. In the Console input field, type the command plugins (or the shorter version, pl) and press Enter.
2. The server will return a list of all currently loaded plugins. Your newly installed plugin should appear in this list, typically highlighted in green, indicating it's active.
3. Additionally, you can return to the File Manager and look inside the plugins folder again. You should now see a new folder with the plugin's name, containing its configuration files.

Congratulations, you have successfully installed a plugin on your Minecraft server! You can now proceed to edit the configuration files to customize the plugin to your liking.