How to Install Mods on a Vintage Story Server

Vintage Story stands out in the world of sandbox survival games for its deep mechanics, creative modding ecosystem, and active multiplayer communities. Running your own Vintage Story server means you can go beyond vanilla gameplay, customizing everything from world generation to in-game mechanics with powerful, user-created server mods.

Why install mods on your Vintage Story server?

Unlock new features, content, and automation to create a unique multiplayer experience.
Fix bugs or rebalance gameplay, responding to your community’s feedback.
Run entire modpacks for a themed adventure, competitive server, or private friends-only world.

Server mods are central to customizing multiplayer: They install directly to your server’s /Mods folder, allowing all players to benefit from new features and tweaks without needing to set up their own client mods (except for optional client-only enhancements).

For server owners and admins, modding means control, creativity, and a competitive edge. You decide which mods to allow, how to shape the world, and what kind of experience your players enjoy. This guide is built specifically for server operators, covering everything from safe installation, and compatibility, to advanced workflows and troubleshooting.

Host Havoc is the perfect solution for Vintage Story server hosting. Host Havoc provides you with instant setup, drag-and-drop mod uploads, automated backups, and 24/7 expert support, so you spend less time on server admin, and more time playing or building your community. Learn more about Host Havoc’s Vintage Story server hosting

What to expect in this guide:

Step-by-step, admin-friendly instructions for safely installing server mods and modpacks
Answers for common multiplayer, compatibility, and permission challenges
Direct solutions for backup, troubleshooting, and security, using Host Havoc’s control panel
Advanced users: dependency mods, permissions.json, Linux/FTP workflows

Let’s get started: Here’s everything you need to know about how to install mods on a Vintage Story server, with total confidence, maximum security, and zero guesswork.

Vintage Story Server Prerequisites & Preparation

Before you install any mods on your Vintage Story server, we need to set the stage for a smooth, error-free process. These steps protect your world, make troubleshooting easier, and guarantee every mod runs as intended for all players.

What You Need Before Installing Vintage Story Mods

1. Admin Permissions & Server Access

You must have admin privileges or file upload access for your Vintage Story server.
For Host Havoc users, this means access to the Host Havoc control panel or FTP/SFTP credentials.

2. Downloaded Mod Files

Get all mods and dependencies from trusted sources, preferably the VS ModDB (official Vintage Story Mod Database).
Review each mod’s page for required dependencies or “library mods” (e.g., XLib, CarryCapacityLib).
Double-check the mod version matches your server’s Vintage Story version.

3. Compatible Vintage Story Server Version

Make sure you know your server’s exact version.
Find this in the Host Havoc control panel or by checking server logs at startup.
Compatibility tip: Installing mods built for a different version can cause errors, crashes, or missing features.

4. Plan for Dependencies & Modpacks

If you’re installing a modpack or multiple mods at once, gather all files, including any dependency mods, before you start.
Mods will not load if required dependencies are missing from the /Mods folder.

Current Vintage Story Server Backup

Never install or update mods without a backup. A full backup lets you restore your server if something goes wrong, protecting your world, player progress, and server settings.

How to create a backup (Host Havoc):

Use the one-click Backup feature in your Host Havoc control panel, or
Manually download your world, config, and /Mods folders using FTP/SFTP.

[See our full Vintage Story server backup guide for detailed steps.]

Checking Permissions & Access Control

Only users with admin permissions or direct file access can add, update, or remove server mods.
For advanced servers: review and update your permissions.json to manage admin roles and mod management rights.
Security tip: Restrict upload access to trusted admins only.

Quick-Start Prerequisite Checklist

[ ] Host Havoc server access (control panel or FTP/SFTP)
[ ] Downloaded mods and any dependencies from VS ModDB
[ ] Verified mod version compatibility
[ ] Full backup created
[ ] Permissions.json and admin access confirmed

Getting these prerequisites right means your mod installation will be safe, efficient, and trouble-free, especially with Host Havoc’s admin tools, backup features, and support on your side.

Where to Find Vintage Story Mods

Finding the right mods for your Vintage Story server is important for a secure, enjoyable multiplayer experience. The safest and most compatible mods come from trusted sources that specialize in server-ready content, support multiplayer compatibility, and offer detailed dependency information.

The Best Sources for Vintage Story Server Mods

1. VS ModDB (Vintage Story Mod Database)

The official, most reliable repository for Vintage Story mods and modpacks.
Each mod listing includes version compatibility, multiplayer tags, required dependencies, and author reputation.
Use the “Multiplayer Compatible” or “Server Side” filters for best results.

2. Official Vintage Story Wiki & Forums

The Vintage Story Wiki provides authoritative documentation on modding, install steps, and troubleshooting.
The community forums are great for user reviews, modpack recommendations, and real-world compatibility reports.

3. Vintage Story Discord

Connect with mod creators and experienced server admins on the Vintage Story Discord.
Ask about trending mods, get installation help, and stay up to date with community favorites.

Safe Mod Download Practices

Always download from trusted sources: VS ModDB, official Wiki, or links from the main Discord server.
Check author and update history: Avoid mods from new or unverified sources, and look for regular updates.
Avoid third-party file hosts not linked on the main ModDB or Wiki - this reduces the risk of malware or outdated/incompatible mods.

Server-Side vs. Client-Side Mods

Server-side mods:
- Installed in your server’s /Mods folder.
- Affect all connected players automatically - no player installs needed (except for some optional client enhancements).
- Marked as “Multiplayer Compatible” or “Server Side” on ModDB.
Client-side mods:
- Installed only on individual player computers.
- Usually provide visual, UI, or convenience tweaks; not needed for most multiplayer server features.
- Tip: Check the mod description for tags and install requirements.

How to Identify Multiplayer Compatible Mods

Look for “Server Side,” “Multiplayer Safe,” or “Modpack” tags on VS ModDB.
Review the “Game Version” field to match your server’s build.
Check the dependencies section: If the mod requires a library, be sure to download and install it to the server as well.

Resource Links & Quick Reference

The right mods, and the right sources, set the foundation for a smooth multiplayer modding journey. Using the VS ModDB and official channels provides mod compatibility, reduces risk, and gives you quick access to multiplayer-ready features.

Step-by-Step Mod Installation Instructions

Setting up mods on your Vintage Story server is simple when you follow these precise steps. Each part of the process is optimized for multiplayer, security, and easy troubleshooting, especially for Host Havoc customers.

Preparation: Download Mods & Check Compatibility

Find your mods:
- Download the latest versions of your chosen mods from VS ModDB.
- Check each mod’s description for required dependencies (e.g., “library mods”) and multiplayer compatibility.
Verify mod version:
- Verify each mod matches your server’s Vintage Story version.
- Tip: If unsure, check your version in the Host Havoc control panel or startup logs.
Gather all files:
- If using a modpack, make sure every required dependency is included.

Make a Full Server Backup

Backup your server:
- Before any changes, create a full backup using the Host Havoc control panel’s Backup tool.
- Optionally, download your world, config, and /Mods folders via FTP/SFTP for extra safety..

Upload Mods to the Server’s /Mods Folder

Access your server:
- Log in to the Host Havoc control panel or connect via FTP/SFTP.
Navigate to /Mods folder:
- This is the root directory for all server-side mods.
Upload mods:
- Drag-and-drop or upload mod files (.zip or extracted folders) directly into the /Mods folder.
- No need to extract .zip files unless the mod’s instructions specify otherwise.
- Upload all required dependencies at this stage.

Check File Permissions & Admin Access

Verify permissions:
- On most hosts (including Host Havoc), uploads through the control panel will have the correct permissions by default.
- If you use FTP/SFTP or a Linux server, make sure all mod files and folders are readable by the server process.
- Advanced: Edit permissions.json if you need to adjust mod/admin roles.

Restart the Server

Restart server:
- Use the Host Havoc control panel’s restart button, or the appropriate command if on a custom or Linux server.
- Restart is required for the server to load new mods.

Testing and Verifying Mods

Join your server:
- Log in via your game client and check for new mod features.
Review server logs:
- Use the Host Havoc control panel’s console/logs tab to look for any errors (e.g., “missing dependency,” “version mismatch,” or “permission denied”).
- If errors appear, consult the troubleshooting section or community resources.

Troubleshooting Basic Issues

Mod not showing up?
- Double-check placement in /Mods, mod version, and that all dependencies are uploaded.
Server won’t start or crashes?
- Remove the most recently added mods and restart.
- Restore from backup if needed.
See error messages in logs?
- Read the exact error; fix missing dependencies or file permission problems first.

Need more help? Contact Host Havoc support, join the Vintage Story Discord, or check the official Wiki.

With these steps, you’ll safely and efficiently install mods on your Vintage Story server, backed by Host Havoc’s powerful control panel, integrated backup features, and expert support. Ready for advanced mod management, troubleshooting, or community help? Continue to the next section!

Advanced Vintage Story Mod Management

After your first mods are installed, advanced management lets you run entire modpacks, update or remove mods safely, and control permissions or custom server setups for maximum flexibility and stability.

Installing Vintage Story Modpacks (Multiple Mods at Once)

Download your modpack: Get modpacks or curated bundles from VS ModDB or other trusted sources.
Unpack if needed: Some modpacks come as a single archive; extract them and verfiy all dependencies are included.
Upload all mods and dependencies: Use your Host Havoc control panel or FTP/SFTP to drag-and-drop everything into the /Mods folder.
Check version compatibility: Every mod and dependency must match your server’s Vintage Story version for error-free startup.
Restart server and check logs: Always restart after changes. Review server logs for conflicts or missing files.
Troubleshooting tip: If the server fails to load, try uploading mods one at a time to isolate issues.

Updating and Removing Mods

Backup first: Before updating or deleting any mods, make a full backup using Host Havoc’s backup tool.
Update mods: Download the latest mod version, replace the old file in /Mods, and restart your server.
- If the mod requires new dependencies, upload those as well.
Remove mods: Delete the mod’s file(s) from /Mods, restart your server, and check for any leftover error messages.
Check for mod conflicts: Review server logs after every change to catch errors like missing dependencies or incompatibilities.

Using Permissions and Security (permissions.json)

Manage who can upload or manage mods: Edit your server’s permissions.json to assign admin roles and set file access.
- Only trusted admins should have upload/delete rights.
Linux servers: After uploading mods via SFTP/FTP, set correct file permissions (e.g., chmod 644) so the server can read every file.
Best practice: Regularly audit permissions.json and restrict mod management to prevent accidental errors or security issues.

Advanced Server Configuration

Custom mod paths: If your server uses a custom folder setup, edit serverconfig.json and update the ModPaths array as needed.
Running on Linux: Use server.sh for starting and stopping your server. Verify you have proper file and directory ownership.
Migrating to a new host: Transfer your world, config, and /Mods folder, plus permissions.json and serverconfig.json for seamless migration.

With these advanced mod management skills, you can run complex modpacks, keep your server secure, and recover from issues with ease, leveraging Host Havoc’s robust admin tools, backup features, and expert support every step of the way.

Vintage Story Mods FAQ

Where do I put mods for a Vintage Story server?

Upload all server mods to the /Mods folder in your server directory using the Host Havoc control panel or FTP/SFTP. This allows the server to load them automatically for every player. Never upload mods to your client’s folders for server-wide features.

What should I do if mods aren’t working?

First, check your server logs via the Host Havoc panel.
Look for version mismatches, missing dependencies, or permission errors.
Double-check that all mods and libraries are compatible with your server’s Vintage Story version.
Restart the server after making changes.
If you still see errors, contact Host Havoc support or consult the Vintage Story Discord.

Do all players need the same mods?

No. For server-side mods, only the server needs them installed. Certain client-side mods (usually visual or UI tweaks) must be installed by each player individually. Always read the mod description on VS ModDB to see if a mod is “server-side,” “client-side,” or both.

How do I remove or update mods?

Back up your server first.
To update, replace the old mod file with the new version in /Mods, then restart.
To remove, delete the mod file from /Mods, restart, and check for errors in the logs.
If you encounter issues, restore from your backup or reach out to support.

Who can install mods?

Only server admins or users with upload/file access permissions (as set in permissions.json) can install, update, or remove mods.

Restrict upload/delete rights to trusted administrators to maintain security.

Where can I get more help?

Host Havoc Support for server-specific or control panel issues.
Vintage Story Discord for real-time community help.
Vintage Story Wiki and forums for in-depth modding documentation.

What is permissions.json and why does it matter?

permissions.json is your server’s admin and access control file. It sets who can manage mods and other key settings.
Keeping permissions up to date is required for security and smooth server operation.

Troubleshooting & Community Support

When installing mods on your Vintage Story server, even experienced admins sometimes hit snags. With Host Havoc’s built-in tools and the right resources, you can quickly resolve issues and keep your multiplayer world running smoothly.

Reading Server Logs and Diagnosing Errors

Access server logs:
- Use the Host Havoc control panel’s “Logs” or “Console” tab to review the latest server output.
What to look for:
- Error messages such as “missing dependency,” “version mismatch,” or “permission denied.”
- Pinpoint the specific mod causing startup issues.
Quick tip:
- Search for lines referencing the mod filename or “exception” to identify root causes.

Fixing Common Mod Issues

Mod not loading:
- Verify the file is placed in /Mods, is compatible with your server version, and that all dependencies are present.
Server won’t start or crashes:
- Remove the latest mods you added, then restart the server. If issues persist, restore from your last backup.
Compatibility or dependency errors:
- Confirm every mod and library matches your Vintage Story version.
- Download and add any missing dependency mods.
File permission errors:
- On Linux or with FTP/SFTP, verify that mods and folders are readable by the server (e.g., chmod 644 Mods/*).

Where to Get Help

Host Havoc support:
- 24/7 ticket-based help for server issues, mod errors, or control panel questions. Contact Host Havoc support.
Vintage Story Discord:
- Live help from modders and admins in Vintage Story Discord.
Official forums & Wiki:
- Vintage Story Forums for user-shared solutions.
- Wiki for technical documentation and advanced modding topics.

Quick Troubleshooting Checklist

[ ] Check server logs after every change.
[ ] Always back up before adding, updating, or removing mods.
[ ] Verify mod versions and all dependencies.
[ ] Use Host Havoc’s control panel for uploads and restarts.
[ ] Don’t hesitate to reach out to support or the community.

Most modding issues can be solved with careful log reading, proper backups, and reliable support. With Host Havoc’s robust hosting platform, admin tools, and an active Vintage Story community, you’re never alone in solving a modding challenge.

Host Havoc is the trusted choice for Vintage Story server hosting, delivering robust performance, user-friendly tools, and unmatched support for both new and experienced server admins.

Why Host Havoc is the Best for Modded Vintage Story Servers

Drag-and-Drop Mod Uploads: Effortlessly upload mods and modpacks to your server’s /Mods folder using our powerful control panel or secure FTP/SFTP. No tech hurdles - just fast, reliable mod installs.
Instant Setup & Seamless Compatibility: Launch your Vintage Story server in minutes. All hosting plans are optimized for modding, multiplayer performance, and high player counts.
Automated Backups & Recovery: Protect your world, configs, and mod setups with one-click backup and restore. Make changes with confidence, knowing you can always revert.
24/7 Expert Support: Our knowledgeable support team is available around the clock to help with mod installs, troubleshooting, permissions, and anything server-related.
Security and Control: Manage admin roles and mod access through an intuitive panel and permissions.json integration, keeping your server safe from unwanted changes.
Dedicated Hardware & DDoS Protection: Enjoy low latency and smooth multiplayer experiences on premium hardware with built-in security.

Ready to Run Your Own Vintage Story Server with Mods?

Get started today with Host Havoc’s Vintage Story server hosting for unbeatable mod support, instant setup, and industry-leading reliability. When you’re a first-time admin or a seasoned server operator, Host Havoc gives you the tools, performance, and peace of mind to build your perfect multiplayer community.

Have questions? Explore our Knowledgebase, reach out to our expert support, or connect with other admins on the Vintage Story Discord.

Choose Host Havoc for worry-free, feature-rich Vintage Story server hosting, where your mods (and your community) always come first.