Installing Mods, Plugins & Custom Resources

One of the best things about running your own game server is the ability to customise it with mods, plugins, and other resources. Whether you are adding gameplay mods to a FiveM server or plugins to a Minecraft server, the process follows a similar pattern.

Understanding the Difference

Mods: Modify the core game experience. These can include new maps, vehicles, weapons, gameplay mechanics, and more. Mods are typically installed by placing files in a specific directory on your server.

Plugins: Add functionality on top of the existing game. For Minecraft servers running Spigot, Paper, or Bukkit, plugins are .jar files placed in the plugins folder. For FiveM, resources are placed in the resources directory.

Custom Resources: A broader term that can include scripts, maps, textures, and configuration packs. The installation method varies by game.

How to Install

Step 1: Download the Mod or Plugin

Obtain the files from a trusted source. For Minecraft, popular sources include SpigotMC, Modrinth, and CurseForge. For FiveM, check the Cfx.re forums and other community repositories.

Step 2: Access the File Manager

Log in to the Pterodactyl panel, select your server, and navigate to the File Manager tab. This gives you a visual file browser for your server’s directory structure.

Step 3: Upload the Files

Navigate to the correct directory for your game (for example, /plugins for Minecraft or /resources for FiveM). Use the Upload button to upload your files directly through the browser.

Step 4: Configure if Needed

Some mods and plugins generate configuration files on first load. Start your server, let it load the new content, then stop it and edit any configuration files as needed.

Step 5: Restart Your Server

Restart your server from the Pterodactyl console to apply the changes. Check the console for any errors related to the new content.