> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://falcona.gitbook.io/jails/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://falcona.gitbook.io/jails/introduction/start-here.md).

# Start here

Install Jails or Jails+, create one jail, and run a short test sentence.

You will install the plugin, create one jail, and tempjail a test account for a few seconds. Do this on a test server before you use it on players.

## Requirements

Jails and Jails+ need Minecraft 1.21 through 26.2, Java 21, and a Paper, Spigot, or Purpur server. Jails+ also runs on Folia.

Optional plugins:

* PlaceholderAPI, for scoreboard and chat values
* Vault, for bail in Jails+ only
* SkinsRestorer, for the prison skin in Jails+ only
* Simple Voice Chat, for the voice mute in Jails+ only

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

## Install the jar

Put the jar in `plugins/`. Use the Jails jar for the free edition, or the JailsPlus jar for the paid edition. Do not put both in the same folder.

Start the server once. The plugin writes its files under `plugins/Jails/` or `plugins/JailsPlus/`.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

## Create a jail

Stand where the prisoner should spawn. Then run the command for your edition.

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Jails" %}

```
/jails setjail spawnjail
```

{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Jails+" %}

```
/jails set jail spawnjail
```

{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}

The plugin saves that spot as `spawnjail`.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

## Tempjail a test player

Have a second account online. From the staff account or the console, run:

```
/jails tempjail Steve spawnjail 30s testing
```

Steve should teleport to the jail. `/jails duration Steve` should show time left.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

## Release the test player

```
/jails unjail Steve
```

If unjail confirmation is on, confirm the prompt. Steve should leave the jail.

If the teleport or the timer is wrong, check the [FAQ](/jails/commands-and-administration/faq.md) before you change more settings.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

## What to do next

* [Jail a player](/jails/introduction/jail-a-player.md) covers permanent jail, reasons, and handcuffs.
* Jails+ owners who want a closed jail should [set up an escape zone](/jails/configuration-and-customization/set-up-an-escape-zone.md) next.
* The [edition comparison](/jails/configuration-and-customization/editions.md) lists what Plus adds.