Minecraft Server Types & Modpacks

Last updated: August 16, 2025

A comprehensive guide to understanding different Minecraft server types, modding platforms, and popular modpacks. Learn how to choose the right server software for your hosting needs.

Server Types Overview

Vanilla Servers

The original Minecraft server software without any modifications. Perfect for players who want the authentic Minecraft experience.

  • • Official Mojang software
  • • No mod support
  • • Excellent stability
  • • Regular updates

Paper Servers

High-performance server software based on Spigot with optimizations for better performance and reduced lag.

  • • Enhanced performance
  • • Plugin support
  • • Active development
  • • Community-driven

Forge Servers

The traditional modding platform with extensive mod support and a mature ecosystem of mods and modpacks.

  • • Extensive mod support
  • • Mature ecosystem
  • • Large community
  • • Stable releases

Fabric Servers

Modern, lightweight modding platform offering better performance and cleaner code architecture.

  • • Lightweight design
  • • Better performance
  • • Modern architecture
  • • Growing mod library

Popular Modpacks

FTB (Feed The Beast) Modpacks

FTB is one of the most popular modpack platforms, known for its high-quality, curated modpacks that offer unique gameplay experiences.

Popular FTB Packs:

  • • FTB Skies
  • • FTB Academy
  • • FTB University
  • • FTB Stoneblock

Features:

  • • Expert curation
  • • Balanced gameplay
  • • Regular updates
  • • Strong community

CurseForge Modpacks

CurseForge hosts thousands of modpacks created by the community, offering incredible variety and customization options.

Popular CurseForge Packs:

  • • All the Mods
  • • Create: Above and Beyond
  • • Enigmatica
  • • SevTech: Ages

Features:

  • • Massive selection
  • • Easy installation
  • • Community ratings
  • • Regular updates

Technic Modpacks

Technic offers a unique launcher and platform for modpacks, with some of the most iconic modpacks in Minecraft history.

Popular Technic Packs:

  • • Tekkit
  • • Hexxit
  • • Attack of the B-Team
  • • Voltz

Features:

  • • Custom launcher
  • • One-click install
  • • Legacy support
  • • Classic packs

Choosing the Right Server Type

Performance Considerations

Vanilla
Best Performance
Paper
High Performance
Forge
Moderate Performance

Use Case Recommendations

V

Vanilla: Perfect for

New players, survival servers, and those who want the authentic Minecraft experience without any modifications.

P

Paper: Ideal for

Servers with many players, minigame servers, and those who need plugins but want maximum performance.

F

Forge: Best for

Modded gameplay, popular modpacks, and servers that need extensive mod compatibility.

F

Fabric: Great for

Modern modded servers, performance-focused setups, and newer mods that support Fabric.

Hosting Considerations

Important Notes for Hosting Providers

  • Resource Requirements: Modded servers require significantly more RAM and CPU than vanilla servers
  • Storage Space: Modpacks can require 2-10GB of storage space
  • Update Management: Modpacks require regular updates and maintenance
  • Support Complexity: Modded servers require more technical support and troubleshooting

Minimum Requirements

Vanilla Server

2GB RAM, 1 CPU core, 1GB storage

Paper Server

2-4GB RAM, 1-2 CPU cores, 2GB storage

Forge Server

4-8GB RAM, 2-4 CPU cores, 5-10GB storage

Fabric Server

3-6GB RAM, 2-3 CPU cores, 3-8GB storage

Recommended Features

  • • One-click modpack installation
  • • Automated backup systems
  • • Easy update management
  • • Performance monitoring
  • • Technical support for modded servers
  • • Flexible resource allocation
  • • DDoS protection
  • • 24/7 server monitoring

Conclusion

Choosing the right Minecraft server type and modpacks is crucial for both players and hosting providers. Vanilla servers offer the best performance and stability, while modded servers provide endless possibilities for customization and unique gameplay experiences. Understanding the differences between server types, their resource requirements, and popular modpacks will help you make informed decisions about your Minecraft hosting setup.

For hosting providers, offering support for multiple server types and popular modpacks can significantly expand your customer base and provide additional revenue opportunities. However, it's essential to understand the increased complexity and resource requirements that come with modded server hosting.