Choosing Your Server Software
Selecting the right server software is the most important decision for your server's performance and stability. In 2026, the choice typically falls between Paper, Purpur, and Fabric.
Paper and Purpur (Spigot-based)
Paper is the industry standard for performance-optimized Minecraft servers. It introduces significant improvements to entity processing, chunk loading, and redstone mechanics. Purpur is a fork of Paper that offers even more granular configuration, allowing you to tweak gameplay mechanics and performance settings beyond what is possible in vanilla or standard Paper.
- Best for: Public survival servers, economy servers, and large-scale networks.
- Compatibility: Uses Spigot/Bukkit plugins.
Fabric
Fabric is a lightweight, modular modding toolchain. Unlike Paper, it stays much closer to vanilla Minecraft mechanics. It is highly efficient and often updates to new Minecraft versions faster than any other loader.
- Best for: Technical survival, modded servers, and small private groups.
- Compatibility: Uses Fabric mods.
Managing Your Server Software on AwakeNode
On AwakeNode
Changing your server type is seamless with our panel. Navigate to the Startup tab. Select your desired software (Paper, Purpur, or Fabric) and the version you wish to run. The panel will automatically download the necessary files and configure your startup parameters for you.
On other hosts / manually
To switch manually, you must first stop your server. Use an SFTP client to delete your existing server jar and configuration files. Upload the new server jar file, rename it to match your host's expected startup filename, and update your startup command via your control panel to point to the new jar. Note that you may need to manually generate new configuration files by starting the server once.
Performance and JVM Settings
Regardless of your chosen software, performance is heavily tied to your allocated RAM. If your server is struggling with lag or tick-time issues, you may need to upgrade your plan. On AwakeNode, upgrading your plan automatically scales your memory (Xmx) without requiring manual configuration.
To add your own JVM flags, set a custom startup command in your server's Startup tab.
Questions
Can I switch from Paper to Fabric without losing my world?
Yes, but you must be careful. While world files are generally compatible, plugins and mods are not, so you will lose all plugin-based data and functionality.
Which server type is best for performance?
Paper and Purpur are generally superior for performance on servers with many players due to their advanced optimizations, while Fabric is better for modded environments.
How do I change my server's RAM allocation?
On AwakeNode, you simply upgrade your hosting plan and the RAM is updated automatically. On other hosts, you must manually edit the -Xmx flag in your server's startup script.
Can I install plugins on Fabric?
No, Fabric uses mods rather than plugins. If your server requires Spigot or Bukkit plugins, you should use Paper or Purpur instead.