How to Install and Manage Minecraft Mods on a VPS Server

Introduction

Explore the endless realms of creativity in Minecraft, where players have been captivated for years by its world-building potential and engaging gameplay. Modifications, also known as mods, take this universe to another level, introducing fresh challenges, unique features, and additional abilities. By running Minecraft on a Virtual Private Server (VPS), you gain more control and customization options, ultimately tailoring your gaming experience to perfection. This tutorial will guide you through the process of installing and managing Minecraft mods on your VPS server, ensuring a smooth and enriched gaming journey.

Preparing Your VPS for Minecraft Mods

Setting Up Java 17

It’s important to make sure your Virtual Private Server (VPS) has the appropriate Java version to maintain a reliable and smooth-running Minecraft server. For versions 1.18 and above, you’ll need Java 17. Here’s an easy way to configure it:

Making sure that your VPS has the right Java version is essential for a stable and efficient Minecraft server starting from version 1.18. The required Java version is now Java 17. Here’s a simple guide on how to set it up:

Update Your Package Index: Begin by running the following command to update the package index:

sudo apt update

Install Java 17: Use the command below to install Java 17 on your VPS:

sudo apt-get install openjdk-17-jre-headless

Once the installation is complete, confirm the installation by checking the Java version with:

java -version

To run servers for Minecraft versions such as 1.7.10 to 1.16.5, it’s essential that you use Java 8. However, launching the server with this version may require a distinct command compared to the one used for more recent Java versions.

sudo apt install openjdk-8-jdk

If you encounter problems with your Minecraft due to incompatible Java versions or because you’re using modded versions, it would be wise to have a local installation of the compatible Java version on hand, to maintain smooth server operation. To do this, you can set a custom Java path by using a command such as:

sudo /usr/java/jre1.8.0_261/bin/java -Xmx5G -Xms1024M -jar forge-1.14.3-27.0.60.jar

By properly configuring Java based on your Minecraft version’s specifications in your Virtual Private Server (VPS), you establish a foundation for a seamless modding journey. This thoughtful setup maintains server stability, enabling you to fully appreciate the gaming improvements provided by your selected mods without interruptions.

Meeting System Requirements

1. Adequate CPU power – A multi-core processor with sufficient clock speed is essential for handling multiple players, mods, and plugins.
2. Ample RAM – At least 4GB of RAM is recommended to support multiple players, mods, and server processes without lagging.
3. Stable Operating System (OS) – Choose a reliable Linux distribution such as Ubuntu or CentOS for optimal performance.
4. Java Development Kit (JDK) – Install JDK 8 or later to power the Minecraft server software.
5. Modpack Manager – Use a modpack manager like Technic Launcher or Twitch App to easily install and manage your desired mods.
6. Dedicated IP address – A dedicated IP will ensure that players can connect to your server without any issues.
7. Firewall Rules – Configure firewall rules to secure your server from unwanted traffic and potential attacks.
8. Regular Backups – Schedule regular backups of your server data to protect against data loss or corruption.
9. Server Software – Download the latest version of Minecraft Forge or Spigot, depending on your preferred modpack and plugin support.
10. Optimized Settings – Adjust server settings such as view distance, max players, and RAM allocation for optimal performance.

CPU: Opt for a high-performance processor with a clock speed of at least 3.60 GHz. This specification handles game processes efficiently and reduces lag.
RAM: The amount of RAM is crucial and should be at least 2 GB for a lightly modded server. For a heavily modded server, 8 GB or more is recommended to handle multiple mods and players seamlessly.
Storage Space: Go for an SSD over an HDD for better performance and reliability. Ensure you have between 10 to 20 GB of free space to accommodate mods and world data.
Operating System: While any operating system can work, Linux distributions are favored for their stability, lightweight nature, and customizability.
Java Installation: Ensure Java is installed and updated to the latest version, as it’s required for both Minecraft and any server mods.
Network Connection: A stable internet connection with speeds between 5 to 10 Mbps or more is necessary for an uninterrupted gaming experience.

Choosing a Virtual Private Server (VPS) that meets these specifications guarantees top-notch performance at an affordable price, especially compared to dedicated servers. VPSs are a budget-friendly alternative, offering the perfect blend of power and cost-effectiveness. They are particularly suitable for running a Minecraft Forge server effectively. To achieve the best outcomes, you might want to explore a VPS such as the VPS M SSD, which comes with 16 GB of RAM and 6 CPU cores. This makes it more than adequate for most modded server configurations.

In addition to fulfilling the technical requirements, it’s crucial that your Virtual Private Server (VPS) supplier provides dependable customer support and guarantees high server uptime as these factors are essential for uninterrupted gameplay. With the right equipment, your server will deliver a pleasurable and multi-dimensional Minecraft experience to you and your friends.

Selecting and Installing a Mod Framework

Choosing Between Forge and Fabric

When choosing a modification (mod) framework for your Minecraft server, both Forge and Fabric offer unique benefits designed to suit various user preferences. Let’s delve into the specifics of each to aid in making an informed decision about which suits your server best:

1. Forge: This mod framework is renowned for its ease of use and compatibility with a vast array of existing mods, ensuring seamless integration on your Minecraft server. With a user-friendly interface, Forge makes it simple to install and manage mods, even for beginners.

2. Fabric: Known for its efficiency and flexibility, Fabric is an excellent choice if you seek a more customizable experience. This mod framework allows developers to create their own mods with minimal overhead, enabling faster load times and improved performance on your server.

In summary, Forge provides a user-friendly, mod-compatible experience, while Fabric offers the advantage of greater flexibility and efficiency for those seeking a more tailored, high-performance Minecraft server environment.

Forge:

Forge stands out due to its strong backing by the modding community and its ability to work seamlessly with an enormous collection of mods and modpacks. It’s frequently chosen by individuals seeking a wide range of mod selections and who enjoy tinkering with both well-known and lesser-known mods.

Fabric:

Conversely, Fabric stands out due to its lightweight construction, a thriving user base expanding swiftly, and its ability to swiftly accommodate new Minecraft updates. It’s particularly suitable for high-performance mods because it offers faster loading times and less memory consumption.

In the end, whether you pick Forge or Fabric depends on what matters most to you in terms of variety in mod options, performance requirements, and preferred method of customization. If you prefer a vast range of mods, Forge might be for you. On the other hand, if you value efficiency and modern aesthetics, Fabric could be your choice. Both platforms offer exceptional Minecraft modding experiences, designed to enhance your gaming journeys in unique ways.

Installation via Nodecraft Pro Panel

Setting up a mod framework via Nodecraft’s Pro Panel is quite simple, providing a user-friendly dashboard for effortless management of your server customizations. Let me guide you through the process:

1. Log into your Nodecraft account and navigate to your server panel.
2. Locate the ‘Mods’ or ‘Plugins’ section and click on it.
3. Search for the mod framework you wish to install in the search bar provided.
4. Click on the framework once you find it, then select ‘Install’.
5. Wait for the installation process to complete, which shouldn’t take long.
6. Once installed, you can configure and manage your new mod framework from within the Pro Panel interface.

Log into Nodecraft: Start by logging into your Nodecraft account. Navigate to the Minecraft server’s Pro Panel where you will manage the server settings.
Access One Click Installer: On the left-hand side of your Pro Panel, locate and click on the “One Click Installer.” This feature simplifies the installation process for various Minecraft mod frameworks.
Select a Mod Framework: Under the ‘Modded Frameworks’ section, you’ll find options for Forge and Fabric. Select either Forge or Fabric based on your prior decision about which framework best suits your modding needs.
Choose the Correct Version: Pick the version of Forge or Fabric that matches your Minecraft Java Edition version. It’s crucial that these versions align to prevent compatibility issues.
Begin Installation: Click ‘Install’ to initiate the installation process. The Pro Panel will automatically handle downloading and setting up the selected mod framework on your server.
Wait for Completion: Allow time for the installation process to finish. You will be notified once it’s complete and your server is ready for mod uploads.

Managing a custom Minecraft server through Nodecraft is made simple, even for beginners in server hosting. Their helpful customer service and active community forums are valuable assets if you run into troubles during the installation process. Using their One Click Installer simplifies the setup of your mod framework, offering a tailored gaming experience with less hassle.

Customizing with ModLoader

After selecting and setting up a modding framework, the subsequent action involves tailoring your server with the help of a ModLoader. This essential tool streamlines the process of incorporating and administering mods, guaranteeing they function seamlessly together. Here’s how to proceed:

1. Identify the desired mod(s) from available options that best suit your server requirements.
2. Download the selected mod(s) from their respective official or reliable sources.
3. Place the downloaded mod files in the designated folder for the ModLoader (usually specified in its installation instructions).
4. Launch the ModLoader and start the server to enable the loaded mod(s).
5. Monitor the performance of your customized server, ensuring all mods work harmoniously and provide the desired functionality.

By following these steps, you will have successfully set up and customized your server with the assistance of a ModLoader.

Install the Chosen ModLoader: Whether you’ve opted for Forge, Fabric, or NeoForge, it’s essential to have the ModLoader installed on your server and client. This installation synchronizes mod operations across both environments.
Navigate Server Settings: Access the server settings in your Nodecraft or VPS panel. Ensure your game profile is set to use the correct version of the ModLoader compatible with your chosen framework.
Load Initial Mods: Begin with a few well-chosen mods to test your setup. This helps identify any inherent conflicts early in the process. Use the ModLoader interface to load these mods efficiently.
Assess Mod Compatibility: Use the ModLoader to check that installed mods are compatible with each other. This step mitigates potential conflicts that could disrupt server performance.
Customize Gameplay: Once compatibility is assured, you can commence customizing gameplay. Adjust mod settings directly within the ModLoader. Tailor configurations to best fit your team’s preferred gaming style, enhancing the experiencewith unique features such as new worlds, mobs, or game mechanics.
Update Mods Regularly: Use the ModLoader’s update manager to keep all mods and the framework itself up-to-date. Regular updates address bugs and compatibility issues with new versions of Minecraft.
Monitor Server Performance: Keep an eye on how new mods affect server performance. The ModLoader can provide insights into resource usage, helping you tweak configurations as needed.

Effectively using ModLoader on your Minecraft server guarantees it stays smooth and captivating. This tool enables you to easily customize and control numerous mods, giving you the freedom to develop an intricate and diverse Minecraft world that enhances the gaming experience for everyone involved.

Uploading and Configuring Mods

Where to Find Reliable Mods

To guarantee compatibility and optimal performance on your Minecraft server, it’s crucial to locate dependable mods. Trustworthy websites and resources offer a vast selection of mods for you to discover and add:

To maintain a smooth experience on your Minecraft server, it’s important to use trustworthy mods. There are several reliable platforms and resources where you can find a diverse range of mods to try out and set up:

CurseForge: As one of the largest repositories of Minecraft mods, CurseForge offers thousands of mods categorized by features, popularity, and version compatibility. Use its robust filter options to find mods that suit your server’s needs and Minecraft version.
Modrinth: Emerging as a popular alternative, Modrinth provides a user-friendly interface and a growing library of both Forge and Fabric mods. The platform emphasizes quality and security, making it an excellent source for reliable mods.
Planet Minecraft: Known for its extensive community contributions, Planet Minecraft hosts a variety of mods along with skins, maps, and texture packs. The site includes user reviews and ratings, helping you gauge the quality and usability of each mod.
Minecraft Forums: Engage with the Minecraft community through Minecraft Forums, where seasoned players and modders share recommendations and troubleshooting tips. This forum is a valuable resource for discovering new mods and understanding community favorites.
Reddit (r/Minecraft): The subreddit r/Minecraft contains discussions on popular mods, insights into their performance, and links to safedownload pages. Being active in this community can help you stay updated on current trends and newly released mods.

Before you download any mods, make sure they’re from reliable sources to reduce potential issues with malware or scripts that aren’t well-optimized. It’s also wise to read user reviews and look at the mod’s update history to see if it’s actively supported and being developed. Taking these steps not only boosts your server’s performance but also guarantees a seamless, hassle-free gaming journey.

Uploading and Installing Mods on VPS

After choosing my preferred mods, it’s time for me, as a game enthusiast, to get them up and running on my Virtual Private Server (VPS) to elevate the gaming experience on my Minecraft server. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how I can effectively manage this process:

1. Download the mod files from their respective sources.
2. Upload these files to my VPS using an FTP client or any other file transfer method it supports.
3. Locate the server’s main directory on my VPS and extract the downloaded mod files if necessary.
4. Navigate to the server’s configuration settings, and adjust them accordingly to ensure the mods are compatible with the existing gameplay.
5. Restart the Minecraft server for the changes to take effect.
6. Join the server again and enjoy the enhanced gameplay provided by the installed mods!

Download Mod Files: Obtain the mod files, typically in .jar or .zip formats, from trusted sources like CurseForge or Modrinth. Ensure compatibility with your installed ModLoader and Minecraft version.
Access Server Directory: Use a web-based file manager or an FTP client to access your VPS server’s directory. Common tools like FileZilla or WinSCP simplify this task by allowing seamless file transfers.
Navigate to the Mods Folder: Inside your server’s directory, locate the ‘mods’ folder. If it doesn’t exist, create one to house all mod files. This centralization helps in organizing and managing your mods efficiently.
Upload Mod Files: Drag and drop the downloaded mod files into the ‘mods’ folder using your file management tool. This action will transfer the files from your local system to the server.
Verify File Transfer: Double-check that all files have been uploaded correctly. It’s crucial to ensure no files are missing, as incomplete uploads can lead to server errors.
Restart the Server: To activate the mods, restart your Minecraft server. This action loads the mods and enables their features within the game environment.
Test Mod Functionality: After the server restarts, connect to your Minecraft server as a player to check if the mods are functioning as expected. Pay attention to any error messages or unexpected behavior.

To ensure quicker and more dependable file transfers, think about utilizing SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol) if it’s an option for you. This method provides increased security and stability over standard FTP. Installing mods can significantly enhance your gaming experience by offering a variety of gameplay expansions and new features.

Verifying Compatibility and Functionality

After you’ve uploaded the modifications to your server, it’s crucial to check their compatibility and functionality before launching them on a large scale. Here’s how to test and resolve any issues with the mod’s performance efficiently:

1. Run the mod in isolation to ensure it doesn’t conflict with other installed mods or vanilla game files.
2. Check for any errors during the loading process by monitoring the console or log files, which can provide valuable information about potential problems.
3. Test the mod on different scenarios within the game to identify any inconsistencies or bugs that may arise under various conditions.
4. Observe the overall performance of the game with the mod installed compared to running it without the mod, looking for significant changes in frame rate, lag, or crashes.
5. Seek feedback from other users who have also tested the mod to gather insights into their experiences and identify any common issues.
6. Make necessary adjustments to the mod based on your findings, then repeat the testing process until you are satisfied with its performance.
7. Lastly, ensure that the mod does not negatively impact the game’s balance or intended design, as this could lead to an unenjoyable experience for players.

Check Mod Dependencies: Verify that all required mod dependencies are present in the ‘mods’ folder. Missing dependencies can lead to loading issues or incomplete functionality.
Consult Mod Documentation: Review each mod’s documentation for compatibility information, especially regarding specific Minecraft versions and other mods. This step helps preempt conflicts and identify necessary configurations.
Engage Debugging Features: Use the debugging features of your ModLoader (e.g., Forge’s “FML Log”) to generate logs that reveal any errors or mismatches. Access and analyze these logs to find detailed error reports and identify the cause of issues.
Utilize Minimal Mod Loading: Begin by activating a few mods at a time. This approach isolates potential compatibility issues, making it easier to spot problems without the confusion of simultaneous mod conflicts.
Test In-Game: Connect to your server and test essential functions of each mod. Verify new items, mobs, or commands are working as intended. Use in-game commands to list active mods, ensuring they are recognized by the server.
Dealwith Conflicts: If conflicts arise, temporarily disable mods one at a time and test the server to identify the problematic mod. Mod incompatibility often requires trial and error to pinpoint causes.
Check Server Logs: Regularly monitor server logs for any new errors or warnings related to the mods. These logs provide insights into unresolved compatibility issues or server strain caused by certain mods.

Adopting a meticulous method for checking compatibility guarantees that every modification works as expected, reducing interruptions and boosting the game’s performance consistency. Comprehensive testing eliminates unforeseen server crashes, ensuring a seamless gaming experience for everyone.

Optimizing Your Minecraft Server Performance

Adjusting RAM Settings

Optimizing the performance of a Minecraft server on your Virtual Private Server (VPS) is best achieved by appropriately configuring your RAM settings, particularly when using numerous mods simultaneously. Here’s an effective approach to managing RAM allocation:

1. Determine the optimal amount of RAM needed for your specific server configuration and mod pack. This can be done by researching recommended RAM allocations for similar setups or through trial and error.
2. Adjust the RAM settings in your VPS control panel, typically under the server properties or configuration options. The exact steps may vary depending on your server host, so make sure to consult their documentation or support if needed.
3. Set an initial RAM allocation that falls within the range you’ve determined and start your Minecraft server. Monitor its performance for a period to ensure stability and identify any potential bottlenecks.
4. If necessary, adjust the RAM settings up or down based on the observed performance and make additional tweaks as needed to optimize overall server efficiency.

Review System Capacity: Determine the total available RAM on your VPS. A good practice is to allocate between 50% to 75% of this memory to your Minecraft server, depending on your server’s responsibilities beyond just hosting Minecraft.
Modify JVM Arguments: Open the user_jvm_args.txt file in your server’s directory to adjust the RAM settings. Use a command like:

nano user_jvm_args.txt

Here, you can set minimum and maximum RAM allocation by adding:

-Xms512M -Xmx8G

For a server running solely Minecraft, it is acceptable to allocate up to 75% of total RAM. For example, on a 16GB VPS, allocate up to 12GB.
If your server also performs other tasks, limit Minecraft allocation to around 50%. For a 16GB VPS,an allocation of around 8GB is appropriate to ensure stability and prevent resource strain.

Improving the management of your server’s Random Access Memory (RAM) can lead to increased server stability, less lag, and smoother gameplay for everyone playing online. This optimization ensures a more enjoyable gaming experience overall.

Generating a New World (Optional)

Starting a fresh universe within your Minecraft server could be an essential move while incorporating mods featuring novel structures, landscapes, or materials. Let me guide you through generating a brand-new world according to your server’s parameters:

1. Log in to your server via a client (e.g., MultiMC, Minecraft Launcher).
2. Navigate to the “Server Settings” section.
3. Locate the “Generate New World” option.
4. Choose the desired world type (e.g., Superflat, Amplified, Default) or customize settings according to your preference.
5. Set the seed value if you wish to create a specific world.
6. Customize other parameters like difficulty level, gamemode, and spawn location as needed.
7. Click “Done” to save your settings.
8. Restart your server for changes to take effect.
9. Log in to your new world with your client and enjoy the freshly generated terrain!

Stop the Server: Ensure your server is completely offline to prevent data corruption. Use your server management panel—often accessible via Nodecraft or your VPS’s dashboard—to halt all current operations.
Access the World Settings: Navigate to the server files on your VPS, typically reachable using FTP or a file manager within your panel. Locate the server.properties file in the root directory.
Set a New World Name: Open server.properties with a text editor and find the line that starts with level-name=. Change the default world name to something unique, such as newworld1.
Choose a Seed: If you prefer a specific world layout, set a seed by modifying the level-seed line. Enter the desired seed value to control the world’s design, or leave it blank to generate a random configuration.
Customize World Size: Adjust the max-world-size= line to set the desired dimension of your world in blocks. Set a value from 1,000 to30,000,000 blocks, keeping in mind your server’s RAM and CPU capabilities, as larger worlds require more resources.
Select Game Mode: Define the game mode using the gamemode= line. Set it to 0 for Survival, 1 for Creative, 2 for Adventure, or 3 for Spectator mode as per your server’s intended gameplay.
Adjust Difficulty Settings: Find the difficulty= line to adjust gameplay difficulty. Use 0 for Peaceful, 1 for Easy, 2 for Normal, and 3 for Hard, tailoring the challenge to suit your player base.
Implement Changes: Save edits to the server.properties file and close the editor. From your server management interface, click the “Change World” button and specify the new world name if prompted.
Restart the Server: Restart your server to initialize the new world configurations. These settings will be active upon loading up the modded server, giving players access to fresh features the mods bring.

By crafting a fresh realm, I can truly appreciate the impact of your mod tweaks, offering an immersive playground for exploration and thrilling escapades. This adaptability guarantees that any newly incorporated features or enhancements seamlessly blend without clashing, resulting in a Minecraft journey customized to the distinctive characteristics unveiled by your modifications.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Connectivity and Launch Problems

As a passionate Minecraft server manager, I know all too well the frustration that comes with connectivity and launch issues. But fear not! By recognizing common culprits and their solutions, we can tackle these problems swiftly and effectively. Let’s dive into some typical snags and how to remedy them:

1. Connection lag or disconnections: Check your server’s RAM allocation, as insufficient memory might cause connectivity issues. Additionally, verify that your firewall settings aren’t blocking the necessary ports for Minecraft traffic.

2. The server fails to start: Ensure you have the latest version of Minecraft installed on your system. In case you’re using a customized jar file, make sure it’s compatible with your current Minecraft version. If that doesn’t work, double-check your server configuration settings for any errors or inconsistencies.

3. Players can’t join the server: If players are unable to connect, verify that your server is publicly accessible by checking its port forwarding settings. Also, confirm that you have the correct whitelist configurations in place if you’re using one.

4. Server crashes or freezes: Monitor your server logs for any error messages, as these can provide valuable insights into what may be causing the issue. Additionally, keep an eye on your server’s resource usage to ensure it isn’t overloaded or experiencing performance bottlenecks.

Solution: Ensure both the server and all players have identical mods and versions installed. Share a modpack containing all necessary files to simplify this process.
Solution: Check your internet connection and router settings. Opt for a wired connection over Wi-Fi for increased stability and consider upgrading your internet plan if necessary.
Solution: Review port forwarding settings. Minecraft typically uses port 25565—ensure it’s open in your firewall. Ensure configurations align with both the server provider and local network settings.
Solution: Re-examine mod compatibility with your Minecraft version and framework (Forge or Fabric). Ensure allrequired dependencies are installed and that mod versions match the server’s Minecraft version.
Solution: Verify that all players have the correct mods and config files in their mods folder and are using the proper version of Minecraft. If a specific launcher is recommended, ensure all participants are using it.

By implementing these preventative steps and staying vigilant about typical network issues, you can substantially boost your server’s dependability and user happiness. Keeping an open dialogue with users regarding necessary system configurations will help make this process smoother as well.

Mod Incompatibility Solutions

Managing mod conflicts may present difficulties for any admin running a server, yet by accurately diagnosing the problem and applying suitable resolutions, you can maintain a smoothly functioning modded gaming space. Here’s a simple approach to addressing mod conflicts:

1. Identify the conflicting mods: Begin by pinpointing which mods are causing issues within your server environment. This could involve observing any recurring glitches or errors that seem to only appear when specific mods are activated.

2. Eliminate one mod at a time: Once you’ve isolated the problematic mods, start disabling them one by one while monitoring the server for improvements in stability and performance. This will help you determine which mod is causing the conflict with others.

Reach out to the mod creators for assistance or guidance on resolving conflicts between their creations. Additionally, engage with fellow server admins and players in online communities dedicated to the game you’re running. Their collective experiences can provide valuable insights and solutions.

5. Prioritize mod load order: Properly organizing the load order of your mods is crucial for preventing conflicts. Research best practices for your specific game and ensure that essential mods are loaded before others to minimize potential clashes.

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to creating a harmonious and smoothly operating modded gaming environment!

Solution: Use the process of elimination by disabling all mods and reintroducing them incrementally. This method can help you precisely identify the culprits causing issues.
Solution: Regularly update mods to the latest versions that are compatible with your current Minecraft and Forge/Fabric versions. Developers often release patches specifically to resolve compatibility issues.
Solution: Review each mod’s description for any dependencies and ensure they are installed. This action helps prevent issues where mods appear broken due to missing components.
Solution: Research and select mods known for their high compatibility and community support. Platforms like CurseForge and Modrinth often have user reviews that highlight compatibility insights.
Solution: Post detailed descriptions of your problems in these communities to solicit advice from experienced server admins and modders who may have resolved similar issues.

Through applying these tactics, you can successfully identify and resolve conflicts between mods, thereby maintaining a steady operation of your Minecraft server and improving the overall gameplay for everyone involved.

2025-03-20 17:31