BuildTools (1.21.8, 1.20.1) is the official utility provided by SpigotMC that enables server owners and developers to compile Spigot, CraftBukkit, and Spigot-API JAR files directly from source code. Instead of downloading precompiled binaries which are restricted due to Mojang’s licensing BuildTools allows you to generate your own server jars locally, making it a vital tool for anyone setting up or customizing a Minecraft plugin server.

Features:
- Compiles from Source: BuildTools downloads and compiles the required components vanilla Minecraft server, Bukkit, CraftBukkit, and Spigot into a runnable JAR file.
- Supports Plugin Servers: The output Spigot JAR supports full plugin functionality and better performance tuning than the default Minecraft server.
- Spigot-API Generation: Alongside the server JARs, BuildTools also builds the Spigot-API, allowing developers to create or update custom plugins.
- Version Control: You can specify which Minecraft version to compile using the
--rev
parameter (e.g.,--rev 1.20.1
), making it flexible for various setups. - Fully Legal Compliance: Due to Mojang’s copyright policy, SpigotMC does not distribute server JARs directly. BuildTools ensures users can legally generate them on their own machines.
- Lightweight & Cross-Platform: Requires only Java and Git to run, making it suitable for Windows, macOS, and Linux users alike.
Screenshots:







Requires:
Minecraft 1.5 to Minecraft 1.11: Java 8+
Minecraft 1.12 to Minecraft 1.16: Java 11+
Minecraft 1.16.5: Java 16+
Minecraft 1.17.1 to Latest: Java 21+
.NET Framework
Azul Zulu JDK
Why use BuildTools?
If you’re running or developing a Spigot or CraftBukkit server, BuildTools is the only official and legal way to obtain server JARs. It gives server admins full control over the build process and ensures compliance with Mojang’s licensing rules. Whether you’re hosting a custom mini-game server, managing permissions with plugins, or developing new mods, BuildTools is the foundation that powers it all.
FAQs
Do I need programming knowledge to use BuildTools?
No. You simply need to install Java and Git, then run BuildTools using the command line. The compilation is automatic.
What command should I use to compile a specific Minecraft version?
Use the command: java -jar BuildTools.jar --rev 1.20.1
(replace with your desired version).
Where can I download BuildTools?
You can download it from the official SpigotMC website: https://www.spigotmc.org/wiki/buildtools/
What is the difference between Spigot and CraftBukkit?
CraftBukkit provides the core plugin support, while Spigot adds performance improvements and extra configuration options.
Is it safe and legal to use BuildTools?
Yes. It follows all licensing terms by compiling the server locally rather than distributing prebuilt JARs.
Download links
- Windows version (Exe file):download Download file
- MAC/Linux version (Jar file):download Download file