How to Set Up a NeoForge 1.21 Minecraft Server

Published June 9, 2026 · By Host Havoc Technical Support Team

NeoForge is a community-maintained fork of Forge that supports Minecraft 1.21.x and newer. It uses the same libraries-based install method as modern Forge. Before starting, connect to your server via FTP.

Note: NeoForge mods are distinct from Forge mods. Make sure the mods you want to use list NeoForge as a supported loader before proceeding.

Steps

  1. Visit the NeoForge download page and download your preferred version.
    NeoForge download page showing available versions
  2. Run the installer JAR. Select Install server and check the Server starter jar box.
    NeoForge installer with Install server selected and Server starter jar checkbox checked
  3. Choose a local folder for the installation files, then click Proceed.
    NeoForge installer folder selection screen with Proceed button
  4. After installation completes, navigate to /libraries/net/neoforged/neoforge/[NeoForgeVersion]/ inside the installation folder.
  5. Copy unix_args.txt from that subfolder and paste it into the libraries folder (one level up).
    File Explorer showing unix_args.txt being copied into the libraries folder for NeoForge
  6. Connect via FTP and upload the libraries folder and server.jar to the root directory of your Minecraft server.
  7. In the Minecraft panel, find the JAR File option and select Forge for Java 21+.
    Multicraft JAR File dropdown with Forge for Java 21+ selected for NeoForge
  8. Click Save and restart your server.

Tip: If you want to use Forge instead of NeoForge, see our guide on installing Forge for the version-specific steps.

Troubleshooting

ProblemSolution
Server fails to startConfirm unix_args.txt is in the libraries folder (not the version subfolder).
Mods not loadingMake sure all mods are placed in the /mods folder and are compatible with your NeoForge version.
Wrong JAR selectedNeoForge 1.21.x uses the Forge for Java 21+ option in Multicraft.