This article was written by @Inspector XoMiya on 10/11/2022.

In this guide we will cover how to install plugins, where to find them and what to do if you need help. Traditionally, Northwood technical Support does not assist with Plugin-related issues, but in order to avoid faulty or outdated guides, we have written a version that should point people in the right direction.

Where do I find Plugins?

Most Popular plugin frameworks have Discord Servers where you can find plugins, chat with developers and get direct support for individual frameworks and plugins. Some popular examples are the Northwood Plugin API, EXILED, and Synapse.

We highly recommend the usage of the Northwood Plugin API (NWAPI) for those new to hosting a server with plugins.

Northwood Studios Tech Support does not provide support for plugins or modified servers.

In order to being installing plugins, you’ll need to find them on GitHub.

Using GitHub

Let’s head over to GitHub. This is where developers post projects like plugins and other modifications. We use it for projects such as Northwood Translation Files so that everyone can contribute.

Using the Search Bar located at the top left, you can search for a Repository. A Repository is where all the files, info and releases of projects are found. For this Example I will use a Repo I have made.

  1. Click the Blue title to take you to the main page of the repository. You should now be on the main page or “ReadMe” of the Repo. This page may seem daunting as it contains lots of things that are not needed by you. The Main two things we need are the ReadMe, and Releases.

    Untitled

    GitHub.png

  2. Firstly you should always read the README.md. This provides important information about the plugin such as how to install it, how to use it, and what things might be incompatible.

    In the image below we can see this plugin states it requires a specific version or higher of “E.X.I.L.E.D” which is a plugin framework like NWAPI.

    1GitHub.png

To ensure your server functions correctly, always ensure you follow the directions of plugin requirements. If it states it requires a certain dependency (additional plugin to help it work) make sure you install it or you most likely will encounter errors.

  1. Once you are sure that you have got all the things setup ready for the plugin you want, click the releases button on the right hand side.

    Untitled

  2. Upon clicking on Releases, you will be sent to a list of releases. These are ordered by release date, with the most recent being at the top.

    The box helps you indicate each release. The title has a green circle next to it indicating it is the latest version (4.2.0). If you only want the plugin file, go to “Assests” at the bottom of the box and click WhoAreMyTeammates.dll.

    This will download the plugin as a .dll file. This file will not run by itself and needs to be put into the server’s plugin folder. Some Developers may have a folder called Dependencies or Requirements for example, within the release making it easier for you to get any required plugins.

    Untitled