How do I manually install Forge or Fabric (installer, server.jar naming)?

Most of the time the Versions tab installs Forge or Fabric in one click. But for a build the tab doesn't list, you can install the loader manually. Here's the full process.

Manual Forge/Fabric install

1. Download the Forge/Fabric server installer and generate the server files on your PC (or upload the installer and run it).
2. Upload the resulting files (loader jar + libraries) to the server root via SFTP.
3. Point the startup at the loader — rename the run jar to server.jar, or set the SERVER JAR FILE variable in the Startup tab. (Modern Forge uses an args file; set the startup command accordingly.)
4. Start from the Console.

When to go manual vs. automatic

The Versions tab does all of this in one click — only go manual for builds it doesn't list.

Tip: Modern Forge no longer runs from a single jar — it uses an args file, so set the Startup command accordingly rather than relying only on server.jar.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to do this manually? Only for builds the Versions tab doesn't offer — otherwise use the one-click installer.

What do I name the jar? Rename the run jar to server.jar, or point the SERVER JAR FILE variable at it in the Startup tab.