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# Minecraft Server Basics: What Are Configs, Plugins, Modpacks, Versions, and Worlds?

Running a Minecraft server through a hosting provider gives you a lot of power, but it also throws a ton of new terms at you. If you’ve ever stared at your server panel wondering what a “modloader” is, or whether you should install a plugin or a datapack, this guide is for you.

If you’re using Nexus Hosting, the good news you can seamlessly install and manage most of the essentials. We’ve put together step-by-step guides to help you understand and manage your server setup:

* [Versions](https://help.nexushosting.io/en/article/how-to-install-a-custom-minecraft-server-jar-file-like-paper-spigot-and-forge-1jjlmme/)
* [Worlds](https://help.nexushosting.io/en/article/how-to-upload-and-use-a-custom-world-on-your-minecraft-server-lrh00r/)
* [Configs](https://help.nexushosting.io/en/article/how-to-edit-your-server-properties-1cp6lc2/)
* Plugins
* [Mods](https://help.nexushosting.io/en/article/how-to-install-mods-on-your-minecraft-server-8u65s4/)
* [Modpacks](https://help.nexushosting.io/en/article/how-to-install-a-modpack-on-your-minecraft-server-kfyh98/)

### **1.** [Server Version](https://help.nexushosting.io/en/article/how-to-install-a-custom-minecraft-server-jar-file-like-paper-spigot-and-forge-1jjlmme/)
This is the base version of Minecraft that your server runs. It determines what features, mobs, items, and mechanics are available, and what mods or plugins will work.

When choosing a version, you’ll typically pick from:

* **Vanilla** – The official, unmodified version of Minecraft.
* **Spigot/Paper** – Versions built for plugin support (best for performance and community servers).
* **Forge/Fabric** – Required for running mods.
* **Modpack-based** – Pre-configured collections of mods that run on top of Forge or Fabric.

Your players must be using the same version (or compatible launcher/modpack) to connect.

![](https://storage.crisp.chat/users/helpdesk/website/-/1/e/6/c/1e6c49e0d02dca00/versions_19dgrk7.png)
### **2.** [Worlds](https://help.nexushosting.io/en/article/how-to-upload-and-use-a-custom-world-on-your-minecraft-server-lrh00r/)
Each Minecraft server runs at least one “world.” This is the actual terrain where players build, explore, and survive. But you can run more than one:

* **world/** – Your main world.
* **world_nether/, world_the_end/** – Dimensions automatically generated alongside the main world.
* **Custom or extra worlds** – Created with plugins like Multiverse-Core.

Worlds are saved as folders in your server’s file system. If you upload a custom map, you’ll usually replace the world/ folder or create a new one and point the server to it.

![](https://storage.crisp.chat/users/helpdesk/website/-/1/e/6/c/1e6c49e0d02dca00/worlds2_2i3hpn.png)
### **3.** [Configuration Files (Configs)](https://help.nexushosting.io/en/article/how-to-edit-your-server-properties-1cp6lc2/)
Config files let you define how your server behaves. You'll mostly work with these:

* **server.properties**: This is your main config file, where you can set the world seed, enable/disable PVP, change difficulty, set the max number of players, define server view distance, and much more. 

* **Plugin and Mod Configs**: Each plugin or mod typically comes with its own config files. They live inside folders like /plugins/PluginName/config.yml (for Spigot/Paper). These configs control how individual plugins or mods behave, everything from cooldown timers to item limits.

![](https://storage.crisp.chat/users/helpdesk/website/-/1/e/6/c/1e6c49e0d02dca00/serverproperties_1dp4g4g.png)
![](https://storage.crisp.chat/users/helpdesk/website/-/1/e/6/c/1e6c49e0d02dca00/configs2_5swo3.png)
### **4. Plugins**
Plugins are server-side add-ons that extend functionality without requiring players to install anything. They are built using the Bukkit API, a custom framework that extends the core Minecraft server to support extra features and server-side code. Since all modern Minecraft plugins are built for the Bukkit API, they require a server type that includes it: 

* Spigot
* Paper
* Bukkit 

Plugins are tools that add new features, commands, protections, and quality-of-life improvements. They build on top of vanilla Minecraft, allowing you to control gameplay, automate tasks, and manage your server more easily.

### **5.** [Mods](https://help.nexushosting.io/en/article/how-to-install-mods-on-your-minecraft-server-8u65s4/)
Mods go deeper than plugins. They can add new blocks, mobs, mechanics, dimensions, and even change game physics. They require a modded server – usually Forge or Fabric – and all players must install the same mods to join.

Here are some popular mods, to give you an idea of what can be achieved:

* [Mekanism](https://www.curseforge.com/minecraft/mc-mods/mekanism) – A massive tech mod with advanced machines, digital miners, reactors, and high-end power systems.
* [Botania](https://www.curseforge.com/minecraft/mc-mods/botania) – Magic through flowers. You generate mana and power mystical devices using natural mechanics, not wands.
* [Biomes O’ Plenty](https://www.curseforge.com/minecraft/mc-mods/biomes-o-plenty) – Adds 80+ new biomes, each with unique terrain, trees, plants, and blocks for building and exploring.
* [JourneyMap](https://www.curseforge.com/minecraft/mc-mods/journeymap-web-map) – Adds an in-game minimap and a real-time web map, letting players see where they’ve explored and set waypoints.

Mods can work together in giant modpacks or be installed individually, depending on the experience you're aiming for. 

![](https://storage.crisp.chat/users/helpdesk/website/-/1/e/6/c/1e6c49e0d02dca00/mods-installer-2_1jympji.png)
### **6.** [Modpacks](https://help.nexushosting.io/en/article/how-to-install-a-modpack-on-your-minecraft-server-kfyh98/)
A modpack is a curated bundle of mods + configs + server files, often with a specific theme or progression system. They are great for survival, hardcore, or themed servers. Popular sources include:

* Modrinth
* CurseForge
* FTB (Feed The Beast)
* Technic
* ATLauncher
* Voids Wrath

Make sure your players install the exact same client version of the modpack or they won’t be able to join.

![](https://storage.crisp.chat/users/helpdesk/website/-/1/e/6/c/1e6c49e0d02dca00/modpacks2_z6ydn1.png)
### **7. Datapacks**
Datapacks are mini-mods that tweak gameplay using built-in Minecraft mechanics. No modloader is required because they run on Vanilla, and players don’t need to install anything. They are a great lightweight option for adding features without switching off vanilla.

Examples include things like custom loot tables, new crafting recipes, and tweaked mob behavior. 

### **8. Resource Packs**
These change the look and sound of Minecraft without affecting gameplay. Unlike mods, they’re installed client-side by the player, but you can recommend or force one from the server.

To set a default pack for your server, upload the .zip to a file host (like Dropbox). Then paste the direct download link into server.properties under resource-pack=.