Help CenterThe right plugins can transform your Minecraft server from just another survival world into a fully featured community hub. Below are 10 of the best free plugins to install, explained with some detail so you can see why each one matters!
1) GriefPrevention
Tired of constantly rolling back griefed bases? GriefPrevention gives players the power to protect their own builds easily. By placing a chest, they automatically claim land, which they can expand with a golden shovel. This reduces admin headaches and gives players control without needing complex commands.
2) EssentialsX
This is the backbone of many servers. EssentialsX adds core commands like /home, /spawn, and /warp, along with moderation tools such as /mute and /kick. It also includes economy features, teleportation requests /tpa, and chat formatting options. If you only install one plugin it should probably be this one.
3) Dynamap
Want to see your world in real time? Dynmap generates a live Google Maps style view of your server that players can open in a web browser. You can watch builds grow, see where players are exploring, and use it for navigation. It is a great way to make your server feel alive even when you are not logged in.
Here's how to install Dynamap onto your SGH server!
4) ClearLag
Large servers can quickly become bogged down by mobs, entities, and dropped items. ClearLag automatically removes excess clutter helping keep your TPS ticks per second high and gameplay smooth. It can also prevent over spawning by limiting how many mobs exist in one chunk.
5) WorldGuard
WorldGuard is all about protection and customization. You can create regions where PvP is disabled, fire does not spread, or players cannot break blocks. Perfect for spawn areas, arenas, or cities you want to keep safe. Combined with WorldEdit it becomes an incredibly powerful tool.
6) CoreProtect
Accidents happen but CoreProtect keeps a full log of block changes, chest access, and player actions. If a griefer strikes you can roll back changes in seconds. It is also useful for figuring out who borrowed diamonds from a community chest.
7) NuVotifier + VotingPlugin
Want to grow your player base? These plugins handle voting rewards. Players vote for your server on listing sites and the plugins deliver rewards automatically such as items, money, or even keys for crates. It is a simple way to boost visibility while rewarding loyal players.
Here's a guide on how to set up Voting on your SGH server!
8) WorldEdit
If you have ever wished you could copy and paste entire castles or fill massive areas with one command WorldEdit is your tool. It lets you edit terrain and builds on a massive scale saving countless hours of block placing. Admins love it for fixing grief and builders use it for creative projects.
9) Vault
Vault does not do much on its own but it is what makes everything else work together. It acts as a bridge between plugins like EssentialsX, LuckPerms, and economy systems. Without Vault many other plugins simply will not function properly. Think of it as the glue holding your plugin ecosystem together.
10) LuckPerms
Running a public server? You will need a permissions plugin. LuckPerms is lightweight yet powerful letting you create ranks like Member, VIP, Admin and assign permissions easily. It even includes a web editor so you can manage everything in your browser.
Here's a guide on how to set up LuckPerms on your SGH server!
