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Install & Manage Mods - Factorio Guide

Factorio Guide • Updated Feb 10, 2026

Installing Mods on Factorio Servers

Mods can dramatically enhance your Factorio experience by adding new content, mechanics, quality of life features, and complete overhauls. This guide explains how to install mods on your dedicated server.

1. Mod Compatibility

All players must have the same mods and versions installed to connect. Mods must be compatible with your base Factorio version.

2. The Mod Portal

The official Factorio Mod Portal is the primary source for all Factorio content.

3. Auto-Sync

Factorio can automatically download and sync mods when a player joins a server, provided the server is authenticated via an Auth Token.

Method 1: Manual Installation (Recommended)

  1. Download the mod .zip file from the Mod Portal.
  2. Locate your server's /mods/ folder in the File Manager.
  3. Upload the .zip file directly into this folder. Do not extract it.
  4. If the mod has dependencies (requires other mods), ensure you upload those as well.
  5. Restart your server. Factorio will detect and load the mods on startup.

Method 2: Client-Side Sync

This is the easiest way for your friends to join with the correct mods:

  1. Ensure your server has a valid Auth Token configured.
  2. When a player attempts to join, Factorio will present a "Sync mods and restart" button.
  3. The game will automatically download the required files and restart with the correct settings.

Managing the Mod List

The mod-list.json file in your /mods/ directory controls which installed mods are currently active.

{
  "name": "example-mod",
  "enabled": true
}

Set enabled to false to disable a mod without removing the file from your server.

Troubleshooting

  • Startup Crash: Check the factorio-current.log. This is usually due to a missing dependency or an incompatible Factorio version.
  • Desynchronization: Ensure every single player is using the exact same version of every mod. Use the "Sync with Server" feature to be sure.
  • Version Mismatch: Some overhaul mods (like Space Exploration) require specific experimental builds of Factorio.

Pro Tip: Using a large number of mods can significantly increase server startup time and RAM usage. Monitor your resources carefully on high-count modpacks like Krastorio 2.

Expand the factory. View plans.

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