How to Install WatchTower on Your Server
Installing WatchTower is simple, just like adding any regular server tool. You don't need to set up cloud accounts, databases, or web hosting to get it working.
Things to Have Before Installing
A NeoForge 1.21.x dedicated server that is running Java 21.
Access to your server's mods folder through your control panel's file manager, SFTP, or SSH.
An open network port (usually 8787) or the ability to set up SSH tunneling.
Quick Start Guide
Download the Files
Get the main WatchTower file (and optionally the disaster recovery tool) from Modrinth or GitHub Releases.
Add to Your Server
Place the downloaded .jar file into the mods folder on your server.
DESTINATION PATH:/your-server-root/mods/watchtower-neoforge-1.21.x.jarRestart Your Server
Start or restart your server. WatchTower will create its settings files and open its web dashboard.
Access the Dashboard & Set Up
Open your web browser and go to http://<your-server-ip>:8787. Log in with username "watchtower" and password "password."
http://<your-server-ip>:8787
Default Login:watchtower/passwordComplete the Setup
Change your admin password, set your server's name, and finish the initial setup wizard.
Suggested Security Setup
Don't leave port 8787 open to the public internet without a password. It's best to access the dashboard through your local computer, a private VPN (like Tailscale), or a secure SSH connection.
Localhost / SSH Tunnel
Highest security posture
Private WireGuard / Tailscale
Private network access
Direct Port 8787
Requires strong password
Keep the CLI jar file nearby
Save the watchtower-cli.jar file in your server folder today. If a damaged mod stops Minecraft from starting tomorrow, you can quickly run "java -jar watchtower-cli.jar" in the terminal to find out what caused the crash right away.
java -jar watchtower-cli.jar