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How to Add Datapacks to Your Minecraft Server

Datapacks are a powerful feature introduced in Minecraft Java Edition 1.13 that allow you to customize the game in many ways—without using mods or plugins. They are fully supported in vanilla Minecraft and do not permanently alter the game’s code.

Note: Datapacks are only available in Minecraft Java Edition, not Bedrock.

The Built-In "Vanilla" Datapack

Every world created in version 1.13+ includes a default datapack called "vanilla". This is part of the core game and includes all basic advancements and loot tables.

Note: Disabling the vanilla datapack is not recommended. Without it, the game won’t drop items (e.g., no wood from trees, no loot from mobs), making gameplay nearly impossible.

Where to Find Datapacks

Datapacks are becoming more popular, but there isn’t one centralized source yet. Some great places to look include:

  • CurseForge – Often found under the Customization tab

  • Planet Minecraft

  • GitHub repositories from individual creators

Note: Authors often include [DATAPACK] in the title or description.

Installing Datapacks to your Minecraft Server

  1. Login into your Nodecraft account.

  2. Locate your Nodecraft Panel.

  3. Open your Minecraft server Panel.

  4. Navigate to the world folder in the Server Files.

  5. Locate the folder named datapacks.

Note: Create a datapacks folder if there is none inside the world folder of your server files.

6. Upload your datapacks into this folder.

Datapacks typically come as:

  • A .zip file (leave it zipped!)

  • A regular folder (can also be placed directly in the datapacks folder)

Datapacks are automatically loaded the next time the server starts. You can also reload them without restarting by using the /reload command (for more commands see our guide here on datapack commands).

where you upload the datapacksadded datapack

Troubleshooting Tips:

For troubleshooting tips on datapacks, check out our guide here on troubleshooting datapacks.

Conclusion

Datapacks are a flexible, mod-free way to customize your Minecraft Java Edition server. Whether you're adding custom loot tables or designing entire new dimensions, they’re a powerful tool in the hands of creative players.

Need Help?

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