---
title: "Terraria Server Types: Vanilla vs tModLoader vs tShock"
description: "Compare Terraria Vanilla, tModLoader, and tShock servers. Learn who needs mods, how plugins work, and what to expect with the 1.4.5 update"
url: https://fps.ms/docs/terraria/choosing-a-server-type
---
# Choosing a Server Type

When deploying a container for Terraria, you will be prompted to choose between Terraria Vanilla, Terraria modded (tModLoader) or Terraria modded (tShock). In this guide, you will learn the differences of these three platforms.

### Differences between using Vanilla, tModLoader or tShock

- Vanilla: the Terraria server software, completely unmodified. Choose this if you wish to play the game as it is without any changes. Players are expected to join with unmodified Terraria clients.

- tModLoader: this kind of server software allows loading "tModLoader mods". Choose this if you wish to add mods that change the game itself, such as adding new weapons, bosses or blocks. Players are expected to join with a modified Terraria client.

- tShock: this kind of server software allows loading plugins. Choose this if you wish to play like in a Vanilla server, with improved administration & utility tools. The main difference from modded servers is that players do not need to install any plugins you add. Players are expected to join with unmodified Terraria clients

Upon understanding what kind of Terraria server you wish to make, you are now set to make your server on FPS. Now, we suggest you to check the [Initial Terraria server config guide](#) before proceeding to guides for specific server setups

### Information regarding forthcoming Terraria update

**The Terraria 1.4.5 update makes significant changes to the game and it affects modded-category servers.** It is likely that the configuration from a pre 1.4.5 world is slightly different than from a new one. While world upgading is possible (and it's advised that you **make a backup**), it is suggested to create a new world to enjoy new content from the update. The modded platform tModLoader is expected to take a few months to update to this new version

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