How to Install Plugins on a Paper/Spigot Minecraft Server
Want to add features like economy, ranks, warps, or minigames to your server? Plugins make it easy! If you're running a Paper or Spigot Minecraft server, you can install plugins in just a few minutes.
Here’s how to do it through the Pterodactyl panel:
✅ Step 1: Make Sure You're Using Paper or Spigot
Plugins only work with Paper or Spigot server types — not Vanilla or Forge.
If you're unsure, check your startup settings or ask our support team.
✅ Step 2: Download the Plugin
Find a plugin you want to use from a trusted site:
Download the plugin's .jar
file to your computer.
✅ Step 3: Upload the Plugin
- Log into the server panel and select your Minecraft server
- Click the File Manager tab
- Open the
/plugins
folder - Click Upload and upload the
.jar
file
✅ Step 4: Restart the Server
After uploading, go to the Console tab and click Restart.
The plugin will now load, and its folder (with config files) will be created automatically in the /plugins
directory.
✅ Step 5: Configure the Plugin (Optional)
Some plugins have configuration files you can tweak. To edit them:
- Go to the File Manager
- Open the plugin’s folder inside
/plugins
- Edit files like
config.yml
directly in the panel
???? Tips for Plugin Management
- Only use plugins compatible with your Minecraft version
- Don’t overload your server with unnecessary plugins — each one uses memory and CPU
- Use /plugins in-game or console to check which plugins are active
- Use LuckPerms for permission and rank management
Not sure which plugins to use? Check out our recommended plugin list or ask our support team — we’re happy to help you customize your server!