CraftBukkit Minecraft Server Software (1.21.7, 1.20.1) – Get the Official Download Now

Q: How do I back up my world and plugins?

Regularly copy the world folders and plugins directory, or use a backup plugin that automates zipping and off-site uploads.

CraftBukkit is the original plugin-ready fork of Mojang’s vanilla server, giving owners fine-grained control over gameplay, performance, and community management. Maintained by a veteran open-source team, it lays the groundwork for successors like Spigot and Paper while remaining a dependable choice for administrators who want stability plus thousands of Java plugins at their fingertips. From economy systems and mini-games to anti-grief tools and quality-of-life tweaks, CraftBukkit turns any server Windows or Linux into a fully customized experience.

Features:

Robust Plugin API – Load, disable, or hot-swap thousands of Bukkit/Jar plugins without editing core code.
Gameplay Customization – Add new game modes, mobs, items, commands, or change world rules on the fly.
Proven Stability – Battle-tested for more than a decade; widely trusted by hosts and large public networks.
Cross-Platform Support – Runs smoothly on most control panels and VPS or dedicated boxes (Windows & Linux).
Active Community – Extensive documentation, forums, and GitHub activity ensure quick fixes and ongoing updates.
Foundation for Spigot/Paper – Skills and plugins learned here migrate seamlessly to higher-performance forks later.

Why use CraftBukkit?

Vanilla Minecraft offers limited configuration, and heavy forks like Spigot or Purpur can feel overkill for small or mid-size communities. CraftBukkit hits the sweet spot: lightweight, stable, and endlessly expandable. Its mature API means nearly any feature you can imagine already exists as a plugin—saving development time and letting you focus on building a memorable server rather than reinventing core mechanics.

FAQs

Is CraftBukkit still maintained?

Yes. While Spigot and Paper build upon it, CraftBukkit receives updates for new Minecraft versions and remains a reference implementation for the Bukkit API.

Will my plugins work on Spigot or Paper later?

Nearly all Bukkit plugins run fine on Spigot and Paper because those forks maintain backward compatibility with the Bukkit API.

Does CraftBukkit boost performance compared to vanilla?

It offers modest gains via configurable tick rates and async tasks. For heavy optimization, consider migrating to a fork like Paper once you’re comfortable.

What Java version do I need?

Use the Java LTS version recommended for your Minecraft build (typically Java 17 for 1.20+ and Java 21 for 1.21+).

Can I install CraftBukkit on shared hosting?

Most Minecraft hosts provide one-click CraftBukkit jars or allow manual upload—just select the correct version in your panel.

How do I back up my world and plugins?

Regularly copy the world folders and plugins directory, or use a backup plugin that automates zipping and off-site uploads.

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