What's the difference between plugins and mods, and can I run both?

"Plugins" and "mods" get used interchangeably, but on a Minecraft server they're not the same thing — and which one you can run depends entirely on your installed software. Here's how to tell them apart and whether you can combine them.

Plugins vs mods

The key is your server software:

• Plugins work on the Paper/Spigot/Purpur/Bukkit family. Install them from the Mods & Plugins page.
• Mods work on Forge/Fabric. Install them from the Mods & Plugins page too.

A plugin won't load on Forge, and a mod won't load on Paper. On a Forge server, plugins simply won't apply.

Can I run both?

To use plugins and mods together, you'd run a hybrid software such as Mohist or Arclight, both available on the Software page. This bridges the two worlds so a single server can load both.

Warning: Hybrid software is less stable than pure Paper or pure Forge. Expect the occasional compatibility quirk, and back up your world before relying on it.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know which software I'm running? Check the Version chip at the top of the console or the Software page — the installed software determines whether you install plugins, mods, or both.

My plugins aren't doing anything — is it broken? Not necessarily. If you're on Forge, plugins don't apply, so they won't load. Switch to a plugin-capable software (Paper/Spigot family) on the Software page, or use mods instead.