Best Minecraft Plugins In 2026

If you want to run a successful Minecraft server this year, you need the right tools. The following five plugins are the most popular choices for 2025. They are all free, easy to use, and updated for the latest version of the game.

To use these, make sure your server is running Paper or Spigot.

1. EssentialsX: The “Swiss Army Knife”

EssentialsX is the foundation of almost every server. It adds over 100 useful commands that the base game is missing.

Key Features: It adds player homes (/home), teleports (/tpa), and a full economy system.
Why you need it: Without this, managing a server is much harder. It lets you set spawn points and create kits for your players.

2. LuckPerms: Ranking & Permissions

LuckPerms is the best way to manage who can do what on your server. It is famous for its clean web editor.

Key Features: You can create ranks like “Member,” “Moderator,” or “Admin” and give each one specific powers.
Why you need it: It keeps your server organized and safe by ensuring only trusted people can use powerful commands.

3. CoreProtect: The Ultimate Safety Net

Every server owner worries about “griefing” (players destroying builds). CoreProtect is the solution.

Key Features: It records every block placed or broken. If someone ruins a build, you can undo it in seconds.
Why you need it: It acts like a time machine for your world. You can roll back damage without restarting the whole server.

4. WorldEdit: Building Made Easy

If you want to build large structures, you shouldn’t do it block by block. WorldEdit lets you change thousands of blocks at once.

Key Features: You can copy and paste buildings, clear huge areas, or create giant spheres and cylinders instantly.
Why you need it: It saves you dozens of hours of manual labor. It is the most important tool for any creative server.

5. ViaVersion: Connect From Any Version

Minecraft updates quickly, and not everyone is always on the same version. ViaVersion solves this problem.

Key Features: It allows players using newer versions of Minecraft to join your older server.
Why you need it: It helps keep your player count high by making your server accessible to everyone, regardless of their client version.

Quick Summary Table

Plugin	Category	Main Benefit
EssentialsX	Admin Tools	Basic commands like /home and /spawn.
LuckPerms	Permissions	Create and manage player ranks.
CoreProtect	Anti-Grief	Roll back damage and see who broke what.
WorldEdit	Building	Edit thousands of blocks at once.
ViaVersion	Compatibility	Let players join from different versions.

Where to find plugins?

The best way to learn how to find plugins is to check out our blog post About Finding Plugins.