Installing Mods and Modpacks

Mods alter Minecraft gameplay by introducing new items, world generation, machinery, and dimensions. Both the server and joining players must run matching mod loaders and compatible mod sets.

Choosing a Mod Loader

In your FreeMcHosting dashboard under Startup or Software:

Fabric: Highly recommended for 4 GB RAM setups. Fabric has minimal overhead, fast startup times, and lower memory consumption.
NeoForge / Forge: Ideal for traditional heavy content modpacks. Ensure memory limits are managed carefully.

Method A: Manual Mod Installation

1. Download Compatible Server Mods

Download mods from Modrinth or CurseForge. Confirm that each mod matches:

The exact Minecraft version (e.g., 1.20.1)
The server mod loader (Fabric, Forge, or NeoForge)

2. Differentiate Server vs. Client Mods

Critical Rule: Do not install client-only mods on your server.

Examples of client-only mods: OptiFine, Sodium, Iris Shaders, Minimap GUI HUDs, Sound Physics.

Placing client-only mods on a dedicated server will trigger startup crashes.

3. Upload to the `/mods/` Folder

Go to Files in your dashboard.
Open the mods folder.
Upload your .jar files into this directory.

4. Boot Server and Verify Dependencies

Start the server and monitor the console. Many mods require shared libraries (such as Fabric API or Cloth Config). If a required library is missing, the console log will display the missing mod ID before shutting down.

Method B: Installing Pre-Built Modpacks

When installing modpacks like Cobblemon, All The Mods, or BetterMC:

Download the Server Files:

On CurseForge or Modrinth, always select the dedicated Server Files download (do not upload the client launcher pack).

Upload Archive to Root:

Upload the zip archive into your server's root folder (/).

Unarchive:

Click the options icon next to the zip file and choose Unarchive.

Agree to EULA:

Ensure eula.txt contains eula=true.

Start the Server:

Launch the server and allow the initial world to generate.