My server crashed right after I added a mod or plugin — how do I identify and fix it?

When a server crashes right after you add something, the thing you just added is almost always the cause. A quick remove-and-test confirms it, and the crash report fills in the details.

Start with the obvious suspect

The most recent addition is the prime suspect, so test it directly:

1. Stop the server and remove the mod or plugin you just added.
2. Start it — if the server is now stable, that addition was the problem.
3. If you still need it, install the correct version (matching your Minecraft version and loader) along with any dependencies it requires.
4. Read the crash report (share it via mclo.gs) — it usually names the exact culprit.

Why version and loader matter

A mod or plugin built for the wrong Minecraft version — or the wrong loader (Forge vs Fabric for mods, Paper/Spigot for plugins) — is a frequent crash cause. Matching both, plus installing dependencies, resolves most of these.

Tip: Add mods and plugins one at a time and start between each. It takes a little longer, but you'll always know exactly which one caused a crash.

Frequently asked questions

How do I confirm which one broke it? Remove the most recent addition and start the server. If it's stable, that was the culprit. The crash report confirms the exact cause.

It's the right mod but still crashes — why? Check that it matches your Minecraft version and loader, and that its dependencies are installed. A version or dependency mismatch is the usual reason.