Install Torch Plugins on a Space Engineers Server

Torch is a dedicated server manager for Space Engineers that lets you run plugins to add custom commands, events, and quality-of-life features. This guide walks you through installing Torch plugins on your own server, from downloading the plugin to verifying it loads correctly. You’ll need access to your server’s file system (via FTP or a file manager from your hosting provider) and the ability to restart the server.

What You’ll Need

• A Space Engineers dedicated server (self-hosted or rented) running Torch. If you don’t have Torch installed, install it first—most hosting panels offer a one-click install.
• File access to the server directory (FTP credentials or hosting control panel file manager).
• A Torch plugin file (usually a .dll) from a trusted source, such as the Torch plugin repository or a developer’s GitHub releases page.
• Basic ability to edit text files (for configuration if needed).

Step-by-Step

1. Download the plugin. Get the plugin’s .dll file. Make sure it’s compatible with your Torch version (check the plugin’s documentation or release notes).
2. Locate your Torch installation folder. This is where Torch.exe or Torch.Server.exe resides. Common paths: C:\Torch for local servers, or /home/container for many hosting panels.
3. Find the Plugins folder. Inside the Torch folder, there should be a Plugins directory. If it doesn’t exist, create it.
4. Copy the plugin .dll into the Plugins folder. Ensure the file name matches the plugin’s assembly name (e.g., MyPlugin.dll). Do not rename it unless the plugin’s instructions explicitly say to.
5. Restart the server. Stop the server completely, then start it again. Torch loads plugins at startup.
6. Check the console/logs. After restart, look at the Torch console or log file (usually Torch.log or in the Logs folder) for messages like “Loading plugin…” or “Plugin loaded successfully.” If there are errors, note them for troubleshooting.
7. Configure the plugin (if needed). Some plugins create a config file in the Plugins folder or in the server’s Storage folder. Edit it with a text editor, then restart again for changes to take effect.
8. Test the plugin. Join the server and try the plugin’s commands or features. Check the plugin’s documentation for what to expect.

Common Mistakes

• Using the wrong plugin file. Downloading a plugin meant for an older Torch version can cause crashes. Always match versions.
• Placing the plugin in the wrong folder. Putting the .dll in the server’s root or in DedicatedServer64 won’t work. It must be in Plugins.
• Not restarting the server. Torch does not hot-load plugins. A restart is required.
• Renaming the .dll file. This can break the plugin because Torch uses the file name to identify the assembly. Keep the original name.
• Ignoring dependency requirements. Some plugins require other plugins or libraries. Read the plugin’s page carefully.

Tips

• Back up your world and config before installing. This protects against plugin-related corruption.
• Install one plugin at a time. This makes it easier to identify which plugin causes issues.
• Check the plugin’s GitHub or forum thread for updates. Plugins are often updated for new game versions.
• Use a test server. If you can, try plugins on a separate instance before applying to your main server.
• Read the plugin’s configuration file. Many plugins offer settings that let you disable features you don’t want.

Troubleshooting

Plugin doesn’t appear in console/logs. Check that the .dll is in the correct Plugins folder and that the file isn’t blocked by Windows (right-click > Properties > Unblock). Also ensure the server was fully stopped before copying.

Server crashes on startup. Remove the plugin .dll from the Plugins folder and restart. If the server runs fine, the plugin is incompatible or corrupt. Check the Torch log for the specific error.

Plugin loads but commands don’t work. The plugin may require configuration. Look for a generated config file and set it up. Also check if the plugin needs a specific permission or role in-game.

Error says “Could not load file or assembly.” This usually means a missing dependency. Install any required libraries or frameworks (like .NET) or contact the plugin author.

Plugin works but causes lag. Some plugins are resource-heavy. Try disabling unnecessary features in its config, or check for updates that improve performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I install plugins without Torch?
A: No. Plugins are designed to run through Torch’s API. Vanilla Space Engineers servers don’t support plugins.

Q: Where do I find Torch plugins?
A: The official Torch plugin repository (torchapi.net) and the Space Engineers modding community on GitHub are good places. Always download from trusted sources.

Q: Do plugins work with the latest Space Engineers update?
A: Not always. Plugins need to be updated by their authors to remain compatible with game updates. Check the plugin’s page for compatibility notes.

Q: Can I use plugins on a dedicated server from a hosting provider?
A: Yes, as long as the provider supports Torch. Most do—check your control panel or ask support. You’ll need file access to upload the plugin.

Q: How do I uninstall a plugin?
A: Stop the server, delete the .dll from the Plugins folder, and optionally remove its config files. Restart the server.

Q: What if a plugin modifies my world and I want to revert?
A: Restore your world from a backup taken before installing the plugin. This is why backups are essential.

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