How to Make a Modded Minecraft Server - Complete Guide 2025

Ready to create your own modded Minecraft server? This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of the process, from initial setup to advanced configuration. Whether you're setting up your first server or looking to optimize an existing one, we'll cover everything you need to know.

UNIVERSAL MINECRAFT MODPACK SUPPORT

PebbleHost now supports any modpack with our modpack installer.
Our system automatically handles client-side mod filtering and builds directly from source, giving you unlimited compatibility with modpacks from CurseForge, Technic, FTB, Modrinth and more.

Key Features
  • Client-side mod filtering
  • Complex dependency resolution
  • Forge, Fabric, and NeoForge support
  • Custom configuration options
  • Automatic updates available
  • Full server-side optimization
Supported Platforms
  • CurseForge - 10,000+ modpacks
  • Technic - 1,000+ modpacks
  • Feed The Beast - 300+ modpacks
  • Modrinth - 500+ modpacks
  • ATLauncher - 200+ modpacks
  • Custom - Build your own pack
1
Choose Any Modpack

Select any modpack from any platform or build your own custom configuration

2
Automatic Server Pack Creation

Our system automatically filters client-side mods and builds a server pack for you.

3
Instant Deployment

Your server is ready to play within minutes with optimal settings and the modpack of your choce!

Frequently Asked Questions

How much RAM do I need?

At least 4GB RAM for small servers (1-5 players), 8GB+ recommended for larger servers or heavy modpacks.

Can I run a server on my home computer?

Yes, but dedicated hosting is recommended for better performance and uptime, Pebblehost makes hosting easy & accessible!

Which mods work on servers?

Look for mods specifically marked as "server-side compatible." Client-only mods won't work on servers.

Our Modded Server Tiers

Budget
Great for users on a tight budget - starting at $1/GB, the Budget hosting plans are great for running a private/community server
View Plans
View Specs
  • Intel i9-9900k @ 5GHz / Ryzen 5700X @ 4.6GHz
  • DDR4 2133MHz ECC Memory
  • Unmetered NVMe SSD Storage
  • 160Gbps DDoS Protection
  • Unlimited Slots
  • North America & Europe
Premium
Perfect for large servers, modpacks, and public servers, who need the power of the Ryzen 7900 @ 3.7 / 5.4Ghz CPU for best-in-class performance.
View Specs
  • Ryzen 7900 @ 3.7 / 5.4Ghz
  • DDR5 4800MHz
  • Unmetered NVMe SSD Storage
  • 480Gbps DDoS Protection
  • Unlimited Slots
  • North America, Europe, Australia & Singapore
  • Free Automatic Backups
  • One-click Modpack Installer
  • Support for Custom Startup flags
Dedicated Threads
Extreme
Unrivalled performance dedicated just to your server, for a no-compromises hosting experience.
View Plans
View Specs
  • Ryzen 7900 @ 3.7 / 5.4Ghz
  • DDR5 4800MHz
  • Unmetered NVMe SSD Storage
  • 480Gbps DDoS Protection
  • Unlimited Slots
  • North America, Europe, Australia & Singapore
  • Free Automatic Backups
  • One-click Modpack Installer
  • Support for Custom Startup flags
  • Dedicated CPU Threads

Requirements for Your Modded Server

Before starting, ensure you have:
• Stable internet connection (upload speed >10Mbps recommended)
• Server files from a trusted source
• Forge server installer
• Your chosen mod files

Step-by-Step Server Setup Guide

Example Java startup script with optimized garbage collection
java -Xmx4G -Xms4G -XX:+UseG1GC -XX:+ParallelRefProcEnabled -XX:MaxGCPauseMillis=200 -XX:+UnlockExperimentalVMOptions -XX:+DisableExplicitGC -XX:+AlwaysPreTouch -XX:G1NewSizePercent=30 -XX:G1MaxNewSizePercent=40 -XX:G1HeapRegionSize=8M -XX:G1ReservePercent=20 -XX:G1HeapWastePercent=5 -XX:G1MixedGCCountTarget=4 -XX:InitiatingHeapOccupancyPercent=15 -XX:G1MixedGCLiveThresholdPercent=90 -XX:G1RSetUpdatingPauseTimePercent=5 -XX:SurvivorRatio=32 -XX:+PerfDisableSharedMem -XX:MaxTenuringThreshold=1 -Dusing.aikars.flags=https://mcflags.emc.gs -Daikars.new.flags=true -jar forge-server.jar nogui

Pro Tip: Save this script as "start.bat" (Windows) or "start.sh" (Linux/Mac) for easy server launching.

Order Your Minecraft Server

Not sure which plan to pick?

Let us know a few details about what you'll be running on your Minecraft server, and we can help you pick out the perfect Minecraft hosting plan.


Which version do you plan to run?

What type of server will you run?

For a Spigot / Paper server running version 1.17 we'd recommend a minimum of 5GB of RAM.

Step 3: Installing Mods and Modpacks

With PebbleHost's one-click modpack installer, setting up your modded Minecraft server is a breeze. Choose from hundreds of popular modpacks from platforms like CurseForge, FTB, and Technic. These include:

RL Craft
Sky Factory
Galacticraft
Pixelmon
Beyond Depth
And many more…

View our full modpack list here. If your favourite modpack isn't listed, you can easily upload your custom modpack directly to the server. Once your modpack is selected, the control panel handles the installation automatically. Your server will be up and running with your chosen mods in just 5-10 minutes.

Step 4: Launching your Server

After installing your mods, it's time to start playing! PebbleHost servers are designed to handle high performance, even for large modded worlds. You'll receive a unique server address to share with friends, allowing them to join the fun from anywhere.

Your server runs independently on PebbleHost's ultra-fast cloud infrastructure, so you don't need to worry about keeping your PC online; it's available 24/7 for non-stop gameplay.

Why Choose PebbleHost for your Modded Minecraft Server?

When you choose PebbleHost, you're choosing a reliable server provider that makes hosting affordable for everyone. Since 2017, we've been committed to making Minecraft server hosting easy, fast, and cost-effective. You won't pay extra for basic features—you'll just enjoy ultra-reliable servers with amazing performance. But don't take our word for it—our 4.7-star rating on Trustpilot speaks for itself!

Here's why players love PebbleHost:
Affordable Plans – Start hosting for as little as $1/GB!
Ultra-Fast Servers – Reliable and fast with 99.9% uptime.
24/7 Support – We're always available to help with any issues.
Easy-to-Use Control Panel – Effortlessly manage your server.
Mod Packs & Plugins – Full customisation for the ultimate experience.

Advanced Server Configuration

Once your modded server is up and running, you'll want to fine-tune its performance and customize gameplay. Here's how to take your server to the next level:

Performance Optimization
• Edit server.properties file to adjust view-distance (8-10 recommended for modded servers)
• Set max-tick-time to a higher value for heavily modded servers
• Configure spawn-protection to prevent griefing near spawn areas

Mod Configuration
• Most mods create config files in the /config directory after first launch
• Restart your server after making config changes
• Use PebbleHost's FTP access for easy file management

World Generation Settings
• Many modpacks include custom world types and biome distribution
• Adjust world settings through level-type and generator-settings parameters
• Consider pre-generating chunks for smoother gameplay

Security Tip: Always maintain a current backup of your server before making major configuration changes.

Common Issues & Troubleshooting

Even with the best setup, you might encounter some challenges. Here are solutions to common modded server issues:

Server Won't Start
• Check for mod compatibility issues - remove mods one by one to identify conflicts
• Verify you're using the correct Forge version for your mods
• Ensure you have allocated sufficient RAM

Lag Issues
• High TPS (Ticks Per Second) drop indicates server struggling to keep up
• Check for resource-intensive mods or large redstone builds
• Use a mod like Lag Goggles to identify problem areas
• Increase RAM allocation or upgrade your hosting plan

Client Connection Problems
• Verify clients have identical mod versions installed
• Check firewall settings and port forwarding (if self-hosting)
• Ensure all required client-side mods are installed

Support Note: PebbleHost's 24/7 support team specializes in modded server troubleshooting and can help resolve even the most complex issues.

Additional Resources

Looking to expand your knowledge? Check out these helpful resources:

Documentation & Guides
PebbleHost Knowledgebase - Detailed guides on server management
Forge Documentation - Official Forge server documentation
Minecraft Wiki - Extensive information on vanilla and modded mechanics

Community Resources
PebbleHost Discord - Join our community for quick support and tips
Minecraft Forums - Connect with other server owners for advice
r/feedthebeast - Reddit's modded Minecraft community

Recommended Tools
MineOS - Web-based server management interface
ModTweaker - Edit mod recipes and interactions
MCMMO - Add RPG elements to your modded server

Frequently Asked Questions

How much RAM do I need for a modded server?

At least 4GB RAM for small servers (1-5 players) with light modpacks, 8GB+ recommended for larger servers or heavy modpacks. Complex tech or magic modpacks like All The Mods or Enigmatica may require 10-16GB for optimal performance.

Can I run a server on my home computer?

Yes, but dedicated hosting is recommended for better performance and uptime. Home-hosted servers require port forwarding, stable internet, and keeping your computer running 24/7. PebbleHost makes hosting easy & accessible with professional infrastructure!

Which mods work on servers?

Look for mods specifically marked as "server-side compatible." Client-only mods like Optifine or shader packs won't work on servers. Many mods have both client and server components - all players will need compatible versions of these mods installed.

Can I switch modpacks on an existing server?

Yes, but it typically requires creating a new world. Different modpacks generate different world features, blocks, and structures. PebbleHost makes switching modpacks easy through our control panel, but always back up your existing world first.

How do I add more mods to my server?

Upload new mod files to your server's /mods directory via FTP, then restart the server. Ensure mods are compatible with your Forge version and with each other. Players will need the same mods installed on their clients.

What's the difference between Forge and Fabric?

Forge has been the standard modding platform for years with extensive mod support. Fabric is newer, more lightweight, and updates faster after Minecraft releases. PebbleHost supports both, but they're not compatible with each other - you'll need to choose one platform.

Ready to Launch Your Modded Minecraft Adventure?

Join thousands of satisfied customers who trust PebbleHost with their modded Minecraft servers. With our easy setup process, affordable pricing, and stellar performance, you'll be playing with friends in no time.

Choose the plan that's right for you and start building your modded world today!

Popular Modpack Spotlight

RLCraft Modpack
RLCraft

Experience one of the most challenging modpacks ever created. RLCraft transforms Minecraft into a brutal survival game with realistic elements, difficult mobs, and complex mechanics.

Recommended RAM: 6GB+

Player Capacity: 1-20 players

Host RLCraft Server
SkyFactory 4 Modpack
SkyFactory 4

Start with a single tree on a floating dirt block and build your way to a technological masterpiece. Features automation, resource generation, and progression-based gameplay.

Recommended RAM: 8GB+

Player Capacity: 1-15 players

Host SkyFactory Server
Pixelmon Modpack
Pixelmon

Bring the world of Pokémon into Minecraft with this comprehensive mod. Catch, train, and battle with over 800 Pokémon in an open-world Minecraft environment.

Recommended RAM: 8GB+

Player Capacity: 1-50 players

Host Pixelmon Server
Beyond Depth Modpack
Beyond Depth

Dive into this popular exploration modpack with a focus on underwater adventures, mystical biomes, and unique crafting systems. Perfect for players seeking a fresh Minecraft experience.

Recommended RAM: 8GB+

Player Capacity: 1-25 players

Host Beyond Depth Server

Managing Your Player Community

Running a successful modded server involves more than just technical setup. Here's how to create an engaging community experience:

Server Rules & Moderation
• Establish clear server rules to prevent griefing and toxic behavior
• Consider installing moderation plugins like ForgeEssentials for admin commands
• Set up a whitelist for private servers to control who can join

Communication Channels
• Create a Discord server to build community outside of gameplay
• Use in-game chat mods like Simple Voice Chat for better coordination
• Keep players informed about server maintenance and updates

Player Progression & Economy
• Many modpacks offer questing systems to guide player progression
• Consider economy mods for servers with larger player bases
• Host special events to keep gameplay fresh and exciting

Community Tip: Regular server events like building competitions or boss raids help keep players engaged and build a strong community.

PebbleHost Performance Benchmarks

We've tested our servers with popular modpacks to ensure optimal performance. Here's what you can expect:

Modpack Budget Plan Premium Plan Extreme Plan
Forge/Fabric + 10-20 Mods Excellent (20 TPS) Excellent (20 TPS) Excellent (20 TPS)
FTB Academy Good (18-20 TPS) Excellent (20 TPS) Excellent (20 TPS)
All The Mods 10 Fair (15-18 TPS) Good (18-20 TPS) Excellent (20 TPS)
RLCraft Fair (16-18 TPS) Good (18-20 TPS) Excellent (20 TPS)
Beyond Depth Fair (16-18 TPS) Good (18-20 TPS) Excellent (20 TPS)
*TPS = Ticks Per Second (20 TPS is ideal performance)

Performance Note: These benchmarks were measured with 5 active players. Performance may vary based on player count, world size, and specific mod configurations.

Types of Modded Minecraft Servers

Modded Minecraft offers diverse gameplay experiences. Here are the most popular types of modded servers you can create with PebbleHost:

Technology & Automation
Create complex machinery, automated factories, and power systems with tech-focused modpacks like FTB Revelation or Enigmatica 2. These packs are perfect for players who enjoy engineering challenges and building intricate systems.

Magic & Adventure
Explore mystical powers, cast spells, and battle magical creatures with packs like Roguelike Adventures and Dungeons or MC Eternal. These modpacks enhance Minecraft's adventure aspects with RPG elements.

Survival Challenges
Test your survival skills with hardcore modpacks like RLCraft or SevTech Ages that increase difficulty through realistic survival mechanics, dangerous mobs, and environmental challenges.

Exploration & Discovery
Venture into beautiful and dangerous new worlds with exploration-focused modpacks like Beyond Depth or Better Minecraft. These packs emphasize adventure and discovery with unique biomes and dimensions.

Skyblock & Void Worlds
Start with minimal resources and build your way to prosperity in SkyFactory or Stoneblock. These packs challenge players to create everything from almost nothing.

Quest-Based Progression
Follow guided progression through FTB Academy or Enigmatica 2 Expert, which use quest systems to teach players mod mechanics and guide them through increasingly complex challenges.

PebbleHost supports all these modpack types with our optimized server plans. Not sure which is right for you? Our support team can recommend the perfect setup based on your player count and preferred gameplay style.