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How to Install Forge on Your Minecraft Server


Forge is one of the most popular mod loaders for Minecraft, allowing you to install and run mods that expand gameplay, add new items, mobs, and mechanics.

This guide explains how to install Forge on your Serverwave Minecraft server, whether you want to upload your own version or use a prebuilt one from the panel.


What Is Minecraft Forge?

Minecraft Forge is a free, open-source modding platform that makes it possible to load multiple mods together. It’s essential for running most modpacks or individual mods on versions like 1.16.5, 1.18.2, or 1.20.1. Forge replaces the vanilla Minecraft server jar with a modded Forge jar, which loads both Minecraft and your installed mods.


Before You Begin

Make sure you have:

  • A Serverwave Minecraft server (any plan supports Forge).
  • Selected a Java-based server type (not Bedrock).
  • The Forge version that matches your mods.
  • Access to the Serverwave Control Panel and File Manager or SFTP.


Need help connecting via SFTP? See our guide: How to manage files using SFTP


Option 1: Install Forge via the Serverwave Control Panel (Coming Soon)

  1. Log in to your Serverwave Control Panel.
  2. Stop your server if it’s currently running.
  3. In the sidebar, go to Settings → Server Type or Version Selector.
  4. Choose Forge from the list of available server jars.
  5. Select your Minecraft version (e.g., 1.20.1, 1.18.2, etc.).
  6. Click Install or Change Version, then confirm the action.⚠️ This may reset your world or delete incompatible files — back up anything important first.
  7. Once the installation completes, click Start to launch your Forge server.

You can now start uploading mods into your /mods/ folder!


Option 2: Manually Install Forge

If you prefer to upload a specific Forge version manually:

  1. Go to the Official Forge website:
  2. Download the Installer for your desired Minecraft version.
  3. Run the installer on your computer and select Install server.
  4. Choose a local folder to install Forge into — it will generate all necessary files.
  5. Once done, upload all generated files to your Serverwave server using the File Manager or SFTP.
  6. Locate the Forge .jar file (usually named forge-x.x.x.jar) and change it to server.jar
  7. Save changes and start your server.


Adding Mods

Once Forge is installed:

  1. Open the /mods/ folder in your File Manager or SFTP.
  2. Upload your .jar mod files there.
  3. Restart your server to load the mods.
  4. Use the console or in-game commands (depending on the mod) to verify they’re working.


Make sure all mods are built for the same Minecraft and Forge version you installed.


Troubleshooting

“Missing or corrupt jar” error

→ Check that your Forge jar file name in the Startup Settings matches the file you uploaded exactly.

“Mod rejections” or “Incompatible mods” message

→ Ensure all mods and Forge are running the same Minecraft version. Remove or update outdated mods.

Mods not loading

→ Verify they’re inside the /mods/ folder (not zipped) and restart the server.

Crash during startup

→ Review the latest log file in your panel. Often caused by mod conflicts or memory limits — try allocating more RAM.


Pro Tips

  • Always back up your world before changing server jars or adding new mods.
  • Avoid mixing Fabric and Forge mods — they use different mod loaders.
  • Use performance mods like FerriteCore or Sodium (via Forge ports) for smoother gameplay.
  • Keep both Forge and your mods updated for best stability.



Updated on: 15/10/2025

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