How To Convert A Vanilla Minecraft Server To Paper?

Converting a vanilla Minecraft server to Paper is a straightforward process of replacing the server's executable file.

Paper is a high-performance, drop-in replacement for the standard vanilla server. It is based on the Bukkit and Spigot APIs, which means it supports plugins and offers significant performance improvements. The conversion automatically reorganizes your world files into the Bukkit/Spigot format, so you do not lose any progress.

Before you begin: The importance of a full backup

Before making any changes to your server, the single most important step is to create a complete backup of your entire server directory. This includes your world files (world, world_nether, world_the_end), configuration files (server.properties), and any other custom data. A backup is your safeguard against data corruption or errors during the migration process.

Step-by-step conversion guide

1. Stop the server

Ensure your vanilla Minecraft server is completely stopped. Do not proceed with any file changes while the server is running, as this can corrupt your world data.

2. Download the Paper server JAR file

Navigate to the official PaperMC downloads page on the PaperMC website.

• Find the version of Paper that corresponds to your current Minecraft server version.
• Download the latest build of the Paper server JAR file. This file is typically named paper-1.x.x-###.jar.

3. Replace the server JAR file

Replace your old vanilla server JAR file with the new Paper JAR.

• Locate your server directory.
• Rename the downloaded Paper JAR file to server.jar to ensure your existing startup script will work without modification.
• Delete the old server.jar file or move it to a safe backup location outside the server directory.
• Move the newly renamed paper.jar file into the server's main directory, where the world and server.properties files are located.

4. Run the server and allow the world conversion

Start your server using the same startup script (run.bat or start.sh) you used for the vanilla server.

• On the first run with the Paper JAR, the software will automatically detect your vanilla world files.
• Paper will perform a one-time migration of your world data to its internal format. This involves separating the Nether (DIM-1) and End (DIM1) dimensions into their own folders: world_nether and world_the_end.

5. Confirm server status and features

Once the server has fully started, it is now running Paper. You can check the console for confirmation.

• Install plugins: To add functionality, create a plugins folder in your server's root directory and place the downloaded plugin JAR files inside. You can find plugins on repositories like Hangar and SpigotMC.
• Check performance: Monitor your server's performance. You will likely notice reduced lag and more efficient resource usage, especially with many players online.

Key differences between Paper and vanilla

Understanding the key differences will help you manage your newly converted server effectively.

Performance and efficiency

• Asynchronous operations: Paper features asynchronous chunk loading and other optimizations, which prevent the server from freezing while processing heavy tasks.
• Entity optimization: It includes features to reduce the performance impact of entities, mobs, and hoppers.
• Bug fixes: Paper fixes numerous gameplay exploits and bugs found in vanilla Minecraft, such as item duplication glitches.

Gameplay behavior

• Some minor technical mechanics may behave differently on a Paper server compared to vanilla.
• Certain highly technical redstone contraptions or mob farms that rely on specific vanilla quirks might be altered or broken on Paper due to the performance fixes. Most players will not notice these changes, but it's something to be aware of.

Extensibility with plugins

• Paper allows you to install server-side plugins, which can add new features like custom economies, minigames, grief prevention, and chat moderation.
• Plugins are installed and managed entirely on the server, so players do not need to install any client-side modifications to join.

World file structure

• As mentioned, Paper separates the world dimensions into distinct folders (world, world_nether, world_the_end), unlike vanilla, which stores them all within the main world folder.
• The conversion from vanilla is automatic, but if you ever decide to revert to a vanilla server, you must manually merge the dimension folders back together.

Final considerations

• Check plugin compatibility: If you're running a specific Minecraft version, make sure any plugins you download are compatible with that version.
• Consider a hosting provider: For long-term stability and performance, especially with many players, consider using a dedicated server hosting service. These providers often offer control panels with a one-click Paper installation.
• Enjoy the benefits: Converting to Paper gives you a more stable and extensible server. This opens up a world of possibilities for adding custom features and building a thriving multiplayer community.