Players need the same mods: joining a modded server
Short answer: For most modded games, every player needs the same mods, in the same versions, as the server. Share your mod list from the Installed tab on the Mods page. Steam Workshop games often download the mods for players automatically; Minecraft and Valheim players install them themselves.
Before you begin
Section titled “Before you begin”- You need: access to the Mods page (to see the list), or the list from the server owner.
What this guide covers
Section titled “What this guide covers”- Why players need matching mods
- Sharing the mod list
- What each player does
Why players need the mods
Section titled “Why players need the mods”Many mods change what’s in the game world. If a player doesn’t have the same mod, their game can’t understand what the server sends, and they’re kicked or see “mod mismatch” or “missing mods”. Some mods are server-only (for example admin tools), and players don’t need those.
Server owner: share the list
Section titled “Server owner: share the list”- Go to [Game Panel] > [Your Server] > Mods > Installed.
- Send players the names and versions of the mods there, or a link to the Workshop collection or modpack if you used one.
Players: get the mods
Section titled “Players: get the mods”| Game | What players do |
|---|---|
| Steam Workshop games (for example ARK, Conan Exiles, Project Zomboid) | Usually nothing: the game downloads the server’s mods when you join. If not, subscribe to the same items on the Workshop |
| Minecraft | Install the same mod loader (Fabric, Forge or NeoForge) and the same mods, using a launcher such as the Modrinth or CurseForge app |
| Valheim (BepInEx mods version) | Install the same mods with a mod manager such as r2modman or Thunderstore Mod Manager |
Expected result
Section titled “Expected result”Players join without mod errors.
Common mistakes
Section titled “Common mistakes”- Different versions. Mod versions must match, not just the names.
- Extra client-side mods. Some players’ own mods conflict with the server. Try joining with only the server’s mods.
- Updating mods on the server without telling players. Announce updates so players can update too.
Troubleshooting
Section titled “Troubleshooting”| What you see | What it means | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| “Mod mismatch” or “missing mods” | The player’s mods differ from the server’s | Compare lists and versions |
| Kicked while loading the world | Usually a missing or different mod | Remove extra mods on the player’s side |
| Only one player can’t join | Their setup differs | Have them reinstall the mod set from the list |
When to contact support
Section titled “When to contact support”Contact support only if the server fails to load its own mods (check the console). Problems with players’ own mod setups are best solved with the mod’s community. See How to contact support with useful diagnostic information.
Related guides
Section titled “Related guides”Last reviewed: 2026-10-05 · Applies to: Game Panel (HiCiTools 3.0.2)