How to add mods to a Minecraft server.

Choose the correct server software first

NodeArc offers Fabric for lightweight modded Minecraft. Do not upload Fabric mods to a Paper or Purpur server: those platforms use plugins, not Fabric mods. Choose Fabric and the exact Minecraft version before installing anything.

Large modpacks can need substantially more memory than a small server. The Free Beta has 1.5 GB RAM, so use a modest set of mods and watch startup memory use. Keep a local copy of important worlds because automatic customer backups are not promised on the free plan.

Use compatible mod files

Download mods only from their official project pages or reputable mod platforms. Each file must support the same Minecraft version and Fabric Loader version as the server. Read the mod page for dependencies such as Fabric API, then add those dependencies too.

Upload server-side mods

1. Stop the server in the panel.
2. Open Files and find the mods folder. Create it if the Fabric installation has not created it yet.
3. Upload the compatible server mod files and required dependencies.
4. Start the server and watch the console from the beginning.

A clean startup is the first test. If the server crashes, keep the first meaningful error rather than repeatedly restarting; it normally names the incompatible mod, missing dependency or wrong Minecraft version.

Give players the matching client files

Many mods require players to install the same mod and version locally. Send a small written list with the Minecraft version, Fabric Loader version and direct links to each required client mod. Client-only visual mods generally do not belong on the server unless their documentation says otherwise.

Update deliberately

Before changing a mod or Minecraft version, download your world and configuration. Update one mod at a time where possible, then start the server and join with a test client. Never assume that a newer mod file is compatible with an older world.