How to Change Your Server Type (Vanilla, Paper, Forge, Fabric)

## Understanding Server Types

Minecraft has several server types, each with different capabilities:

- **Vanilla** — The default Minecraft server with no mod or plugin support
- **Paper/Spigot** — Modified servers that support **plugins** (e.g., EssentialsX, WorldEdit)
- **Forge/NeoForge** — Modified servers that support **mods** (e.g., modpacks from CurseForge)
- **Fabric** — A lightweight mod loader, popular for performance mods

## How to Switch Server Types

You can change your server type directly from your game panel — no need to contact support.

- Log into your Pterodactyl game panel
- Select your server
- Open the **Version Changer** tool
- Select the server type you want (Paper, Forge, Fabric, Vanilla, etc.)
- Choose your desired Minecraft version
- Confirm the change and restart your server

## What to Know Before Switching

- **Vanilla → Paper/Spigot** — Your world and settings carry over. Paper is backwards-compatible with Vanilla
- **Vanilla → Forge/Fabric** — Your world carries over, but you'll need to install mods separately
- **Java ↔ Bedrock** — These are completely different platforms. Switching between them requires a fresh server. Your files cannot be transferred
- **Forge ↔ Fabric** — Mods are not cross-compatible. You'll need to find equivalent mods for the target platform

## After the Switch

You may need to:

- Re-upload your plugins/mods if they are specific to the previous server type
- Accept the EULA again if prompted
- Delete the old if the version changer does not replace it automatically