A Minecraft plugin is incompatible or prevents startup
Identify the Java version, the server API and the dependency that the failing plugin is missing.
A Paper or Spigot plugin is not automatically compatible with all versions of Minecraft. The logs often show the missing API, Java, or dependency.
Step-by-step procedure
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Spot the first ERROR
Go back to the first error that mentions the plugin name, not just the last cascading exception.
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Check the server software
A Bukkit plugin requires Paper, Purpur or Spigot; it does not load on Vanilla, Forge or Fabric.
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Compare the versions
Check the Minecraft version, the required Java version and the plugin’s official page.
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Install the dependencies
Add Vault, ProtocolLib or the required API only from their official source, then restart the server.