What is a Minecraft plugin?
27 February 2026
Almost every server uses plugins these days. Some servers only use a handful of plugins, while others have hundreds. But what exactly can you do with them?
What do Minecraft plugins do?
There are thousands of plugins available for Minecraft, and they all do something different. For almost any feature you can think of, there is probably a plugin for it online.
Examples include a custom TAB list, a scoreboard on the right side of your screen showing your name and level, or a plugin that allows admins to warn players.
Can I use plugins too?
Yes, absolutely! Most plugins can be downloaded for free from the internet. Keep in mind that Vanilla Minecraft does not support plugins. You will need to use something like Spigot or Paper to install plugins.
It is also important to make sure the plugin supports your Minecraft version. Some plugins are no longer maintained and may not work on newer versions.
Would you like to change your Minecraft server version? We have a knowledge base article about this: How do I change my Minecraft server version?
🚨 Warning: Spigot and Paper store the Nether and End differently than Vanilla. If you want to keep your progress, make sure to follow the step by step guide.
Where can I find plugins?
There are many different websites where you can find plugins. The most well known and largest ones are Spigot, CurseForge, and Modrinth.
Example
Let’s say you want a plugin that allows players to sit on stairs in Minecraft. You would search for this plugin on one of the websites mentioned above.
On Modrinth, you find the plugin you were looking for. When downloading it, make sure you choose the correct version and the right server type, such as Spigot, Paper, or Bukkit.
Hopefully you now have a better understanding of what plugins do and where to find them.