Sponge Minecraft Server Software FAQ
10 questions players actually ask, answered.
What's the difference between SpongeVanilla and SpongeForge?
SpongeVanilla runs on a vanilla Minecraft server and lets you use Sponge plugins without Forge mods. SpongeForge runs on top of Minecraft Forge, so you can use both Sponge plugins and Forge mods together on the same server.
Do I need to restart my server every time I add a new plugin?
Most plugins require a server restart to load properly, though some may support hot-reloading depending on how they're coded. Check your plugin's documentation to see if it can be reloaded without a full restart.
Why aren't my plugins loading?
Check that your plugins are in the correct folder (usually `mods` or `plugins`), that they're compatible with your Sponge version, and review the server logs for error messages that explain what went wrong.
Can I use plugins from different Minecraft versions on my server?
No, plugins are built for specific Minecraft versions. A plugin made for one version may not work on another, so always check compatibility before installing.
How do I give players permission to use a plugin's commands?
Use your permission plugin (usually configured in a permissions file or database) to assign permission nodes to players or groups, then restart the server or reload permissions for changes to take effect.
Will adding lots of plugins slow down my server?
Yes, each plugin uses memory and processing power, so too many can cause lag. Monitor your server performance and disable or remove plugins you're not actively using.
What should I do if two plugins are conflicting with each other?
Check the server logs for error messages, verify both plugins are compatible with your Sponge version, and try disabling one plugin at a time to identify which pair is causing the conflict. Then check if there's a newer version or configuration option that resolves it.
Can I use Sponge plugins on older versions of Minecraft?
Yes, Sponge supports many older Minecraft versions that Mojang no longer officially supports, but you need to use the Sponge build that matches your server version.
Where do I find plugins to download?
Plugins are available on community websites and repositories dedicated to Sponge; check the Sponge community resources and forums for links to plugin collections.
How do I use commands from a plugin in-game?
Type the command in chat (usually starting with `/`), but you need the proper permissions set up first; if nothing happens, check that you have permission to use that command and that the plugin is loaded.