Paper, Forge, NeoForge, or CurseForge: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Your Server
Your Server Engine: What do these options mean?
When creating your server at Mineando, you'll see several software options. This isn't just about the name: choosing the wrong one can prevent your server from starting or make it run slowly if you don't have the right amount of RAM.
Here is the ultimate 2026 guide to understanding what each one is and which one you need based on your plan (2GB, 4GB, 8GB, or 12GB).
1. Paper (The Performance King)
If you want to play "Normal" Minecraft (Vanilla) with your friends, this is the option you should check.
- What is it? An ultra-optimized version of Minecraft. It makes the game run much smoother than the original Mojang file and allows you to install Plugins (protections, voice chat, skins).
- Who is it for? Groups of friends who want to play classic Survival without lag.
- Ideal Plan: It works wonders on our 2GB (older versions) and 4GB (newer versions) plans.
2. Forge vs. NeoForge (The World of Mods)
This is where things often get confusing. Both are used to load mods, but they are "split siblings."
- Forge: The classic mod loader. The vast majority of older and famous mods (like those for version 1.12.2 or 1.16.5) run here.
- NeoForge: The modern evolution. Many new mod developers (for 1.20, 1.21, and beyond) have switched to NeoForge.
- Which one do I choose? It depends on the mods you want to play. If your mods say "Requires NeoForge," pick that one. If not, play it safe with Forge.
- Ideal Plan: Mods consume a lot of memory. Don't even try it with less than 8GB.
3. CurseForge (The "Easy" Option for Modpacks)
Don't want to struggle uploading files one by one? This option is pure magic.
- What is it? CurseForge isn't just a loader; it's an ecosystem. By selecting this option at Mineando, you can install entire Modpacks with a single click.
- Examples: Want to play RLCraft, Better Minecraft, or All The Mods 8? Simply search for it in our panel, hit install, and the system will automatically configure Forge or NeoForge for you.
- Ideal Plan: Modpacks are heavy. We strongly recommend the 8GB plan for light packs and the 12GB plan for large packs with over 200 mods.
Quick Summary
| Your Goal | Option to Choose | Recommended RAM |
|---|---|---|
| Play Survival with friends | Paper | 4 GB |
| Install individual mods | Forge / NeoForge | 8 GB |
| Install famous Modpacks | CurseForge | 8 GB - 12 GB |
Conclusion
At Mineando, we provide the tools; you provide the imagination. Whether you're looking for maximum optimization with Paper or modded madness with CurseForge, we have the machine ready for you.
Pick your engine and start in seconds: Mineando Control Panel
