Server types (Vanilla, Paper, Forge, Fabric)
When to use which, and how to switch.
Minecraft Java has a few server flavors. Each has trade-offs.
Which one to pick
| Type | Best for | Mods? | Plugins? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vanilla | Pure Minecraft, no extras | No | No |
| Paper | Most servers — performance + plugins | No | Yes (Bukkit/Spigot/Paper API) |
| Purpur | Paper + extra config knobs | No | Yes (Paper-compatible) |
| Forge | Modded gameplay (most modpacks) | Yes (client+server) | Limited |
| Fabric | Lightweight mods | Yes (client+server) | Some (via Fabric API) |
Plugins modify the server only — players join with vanilla clients. Mods change the game and players need the same mods client-side.
Switching types
In the control panel:
- Open the Settings (or Startup) section.
- Change the server type dropdown.
- Change the Minecraft version if needed.
- Restart the server.
The server reinstalls the engine on next start, keeping your world intact. Plugins/mods inside the matching folder stay, but the type needs to match (don't drop Forge mods into a Paper server).
Version compatibility
Plugins and mods are version-specific. Paper plugins built for 1.20 may not work on 1.21. Forge mods are even pickier — they're tied to both the Minecraft version and the Forge version.
Before upgrading versions:
- Check that every plugin/mod you use has a release for the new version.
- Back up the world.
- Update.
Resource pack
To force a resource pack, edit server.properties:
resource-pack=https://example.com/pack.zip
resource-pack-sha1=<sha1 of the zip>
require-resource-pack=true
Players auto-download on join. Host the pack on any HTTPS URL — a Suzko Cloud Storage bucket works well.