How to Install Forge on a Minecraft Server (2026)
Forge is the most popular mod loader for Minecraft Java Edition. It powers thousands of mods and most major modpacks. Here is how to install it on a server.
Requirements
- Java 17 (for MC 1.18 to 1.20.4) or Java 21 (for MC 1.20.5+)
- At least 4 GB RAM (more for modded)
- SSH or file access to your server
Installation Steps
Step 1: Download Forge Installer
- Go to files.minecraftforge.net
- Select your Minecraft version
- Click Installer (not the MDK or universal)
Step 2: Upload and Run Installer
Upload the installer to your server and run:
java -jar forge-*-installer.jar --installServer
This creates:
- A
libraries/folder - A
run.sh(Linux) orrun.bat(Windows) script - Server files in the current directory
Step 3: Accept EULA
echo "eula=true" > eula.txt
Step 4: Start the Server
./run.sh
Or manually:
java -Xms4G -Xmx4G @libraries/net/minecraftforge/forge/*/unix_args.txt nogui
Step 5: Install Mods
- Stop the server
- Place mod jars in the
mods/folder - Start the server again
Forge vs NeoForge
NeoForge is a fork of Forge that started in 2023. For Minecraft 1.20.2+, NeoForge is the actively developed version. The installation process is nearly identical.
| Feature | Forge | NeoForge | |---------|-------|----------| | MC 1.12 to 1.20.1 | Supported | Not available | | MC 1.20.2+ | Maintenance mode | Active development | | Mod compatibility | Largest library | Growing, most Forge mods work | | Installation | Same | Same |
For new servers on 1.20.2+, consider NeoForge.
Troubleshooting
Server Crashes on Start
- Check
logs/latest.logfor error details - Verify Java version matches requirements
- Remove recently added mods one at a time
Mods Not Loading
- Verify mod versions match your Forge and MC version
- Check for missing dependencies in the log
- Some mods require Fabric, not Forge (check the mod page)
Out of Memory
Increase RAM in the start script:
java -Xms6G -Xmx6G @libraries/...
Host your Forge server. View Minecraft Hosting Plans
