Not sure which server software to choose for your Minecraft server? In this article, we explain the difference between CraftBukkit, Spigot, and Paper.

CraftBukkit

CraftBukkit was the first server software to make plugins possible. It is barely used anymore, since Spigot and Paper are faster and more stable. We no longer recommend CraftBukkit.

Spigot

Spigot is a further development of CraftBukkit with performance improvements. Spigot supports the same plugins as Bukkit, and many older plugins are built specifically for Spigot.

Paper

Paper is a further development of Spigot, with even more optimizations, extra settings, and better support for heavy servers. Paper is compatible with most Spigot plugins and is currently the most used and recommended option for a plugin-based server.

Which should I choose?

• Starting a new server? Choose Paper. It is the fastest and most actively developed option, with the best plugin support.
• Using an old plugin that only supports Spigot? In that case choose Spigot, but first check whether there isn't a newer, Paper-compatible version of the plugin.
• CraftBukkit is almost never the right choice anymore.

Switching from Spigot/Bukkit to Paper

1. Log in to the Game Panel and select your server.
2. Make a backup first via Backups → Create Backup.
3. Click More > Version Changer in the menu.
4. Choose Paper and the desired Minecraft version.
5. Click View, then Install. Do not check WIPE SERVER FILES.
6. Start the server and check whether all your plugins still work.

Still stuck? Feel free to reach out via Discord or create a support ticket.