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Install Mods - Terraria Wiki

Terraria Guide • Updated Jan 6, 2026

How to Install & Manage Mods on a tModLoader Server

Modding is the cornerstone of the Terraria community. With tModLoader 1.4+, the process has moved to the Steam Workshop, making it easier to download and sync mods across multiple players. However, setting up a dedicated server requires specific steps to ensure all players can connect without "Mod Version Mismatch" errors.

1. Workshop Subscriptions

Subscribe to mods via the Steam Workshop on your local PC. tModLoader will handle the downloads. Use Mod Packs to keep your selection organized.

2. The Enabled.json File

This critical file tells the server exactly which mods to activate. It is located in your local Mods/ folder after you enable them in your client.

3. Server Syncing

You must upload both the .tmod files and the enabled.json to the server's Mods/ directory to ensure perfect synchronization.

Phase 1: Configure Your Local Modpack

Always build your modpack on your own PC first to ensure compatibility and that there are no red "Missing Dependency" warnings.

  1. Launch tModLoader -> Workshop -> Manage Mods.
  2. Enable your desired mods (e.g., Calamity, Thorium, Ore Excavator).
  3. Restart tModLoader to allow the game to generate the enabled.json file.
  4. Navigate to Documents/My Games/Terraria/tModLoader/Mods/ on your PC. You will see your .tmod files and the enabled.json here.

Phase 2: Uploading to the Dedicated Server

Use an FTP client or your host's File Manager to reach the server's mod directory.

Platform Typical Path
Linux (Common)~/.local/share/Terraria/tModLoader/Mods/
WindowsDocuments\My Games\Terraria\tModLoader\Mods\

Steps:

  • Upload all .tmod files from your local folder to the server's folder.
  • Upload enabled.json to the same location.
  • Restart the server. tModLoader must re-scan the folder on boot to register the changes.

Advanced: Mod Configurations

Many mods (like Calamity) have internal settings (e.g., boss health multipliers). To change these on the server:

  1. On your PC, adjust the mod settings via Settings > Mod Configuration.
  2. Navigate to tModLoader/ModConfigs/ on your PC.
  3. Upload the .json configuration files to the SAME folder name on the server.
  4. The server will now use your custom difficulty and gameplay settings.

Recommended "Essential" Mods for Servers

  • Ore Excavator: Allows players to mine entire veins at once, reducing tedious grinding.
  • Magic Storage: Mandatory for large modpacks! It provides a central, searchable storage system.
  • Recipe Browser: Helps players discover what they can craft with modded materials.
  • Boss Checklist: Syncs boss progression across all players so everyone knows what's next.

Memory Warning: Running Calamity + Thorium simultaneously requires a minimum of 4GB - 6GB of RAM. If your server is crashing during "Loading World," you likely need more memory for these massive content expansions.

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