> ## Knowledge Base Index
> Fetch the complete knowledge base index at: https://help.nexushosts.com/sitemap.xml
> Use this file to discover available pages before exploring further.
> Pure-Markdown content can be obtained by appending a '.md' suffix to the content URLs listed in the sitemap (without the trailing slash).

# How to Install Plugins on Your Minecraft Server

Plugins are one of the easiest ways to add new features and quality-of-life improvements to your Minecraft server, like teleport commands, economy systems, minigames, or moderation tools. If you’re running a server with a plugin-compatible setup (like Paper, Spigot, or Purpur), installing plugins is quick and painless. You don’t need to write any code or restart your world, just install with Nexus and go.

|| Plugins run server-side only. As long as players are using the correct game version (e.g., 1.20.4), they don’t need to download or install anything to benefit from the plugin features.

### **Step 1: Make Sure You’re Using a Compatible Server Type**
Plugins don’t work on the default Vanilla Minecraft server or on modded Forge/Fabric servers. You’ll need to be running a plugin-compatible jar type, such as:

* **Spigot**
* **Paper** (recommended for better performance and plugin compatibility)
* **Purpur** (a fork of Paper with extra features)

Check your server files to confirm the server jar. If you’re using Vanilla, switch to Paper or Spigot before continuing.

### **Step 2:** Log In
Log in to your [__Nexus Hosting Account__](https://gamecp.nexuscorehosting.com/auth/login).

![](https://storage.crisp.chat/users/helpdesk/website/-/1/e/6/c/1e6c49e0d02dca00/nexuscorelogin_pmlgpz.png)
### **Step 3:** Select Server
Once on the dashboard, find and select your intended Minecraft server. 

![](https://storage.crisp.chat/users/helpdesk/website/-/1/e/6/c/1e6c49e0d02dca00/minecraftserver_phn7od.png)
### **Step 4: Navigate to the Plugins Installer Page**
Click the **More** option (three ellipses) from the sidebar. In the pop-up menu, select **Plugins** **Installer.**

![](https://storage.crisp.chat/users/helpdesk/website/-/1/e/6/c/1e6c49e0d02dca00/pluginsinstaller_dh8xbq.png)
### **Step 5:** Search for Plugin
Use the search bar to find the plugin by name or keyword, then narrow down the results using the **Server Software** and **Version** filters. This helps you find plugins that are actually compatible with your server’s jar type (like Paper or Spigot). 

You can also browse across different plugin sources. If a plugin isn’t listed under one provider, it might be available through another.

![](https://storage.crisp.chat/users/helpdesk/website/-/1/e/6/c/1e6c49e0d02dca00/searchplugin_142ugud.png)
### **Step 6:** Install Plugin
Once you find a plugin you like, click the **Install** button. You can also visit the plugins website or look through (and install) older **Versions** of the plugin. 

![](https://storage.crisp.chat/users/helpdesk/website/-/1/e/6/c/1e6c49e0d02dca00/install-plugin_12excu0.png)
That's it! The plugin will automatically be installed.