---
title: "Paper Anti-Xray Settings: Engine Modes and Testing | ZCS"
description: "Set up Paper anti-xray with the right engine mode, hidden blocks and world overrides, then test it so ore stays hidden without hurting performance."
url: "https://www.zcraftstudios.com/blog/paper-anti-xray-settings-guide"
updated: "2026-10-20T07:16:50.972429+00:00"
source: "ZCraft Studios"
---

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# Paper Anti-Xray Settings: Engine Modes and Testing

ZCraft StudiosOct 15, 2026Updated Oct 20, 2026

Set up Paper anti-xray with the right engine mode, hidden blocks and world overrides, then test it so ore stays hidden without hurting performance.

## In this guide

- [Where the configuration lives](#where-the-configuration-lives)
- [What the engine modes mean](#what-the-engine-modes-mean)
- [A configuration fragment to recognize](#a-configuration-fragment-to-recognize)
- [Test what players actually see](#test-what-players-actually-see)
- [Understanding block lists](#understanding-block-lists)
- [Performance and compatibility testing](#performance-and-compatibility-testing)
- [Troubleshooting](#troubleshooting)
- [Release checklist](#release-checklist)
- [Related guides](#related-guides)

## Paper Anti-Xray Settings Explained

Paper's Anti-Xray feature changes what ore information the server sends to clients. It is intended to reduce the effectiveness of certain client-side ore-location methods, but it should not be described as preventing every form of unfair play.

## Where the configuration lives

On contemporary Paper versions, world defaults are documented under `config/paper-world-defaults.yml`. More specific worlds can have their own Paper configuration overrides, including under namespaced dimension paths on supported versions.

**Before editing:** confirm the server build, take a backup and consult the exact [Paper world configuration reference](https://docs.papermc.io/paper/reference/world-configuration/). The available keys and defaults can change by release.

## What the engine modes mean

| Mode | Concept | Trade-off |

| --- | --- | --- |

| 1 | Replace some hidden ores with substitute blocks in packets | Simple obfuscation; visibility varies by surroundings |

| 2 | Use a more extensive replacement strategy | Potentially different client visual and processing behavior |

| 3 | Uses a layer-oriented replacement approach | Evaluate support and impact on your own release |

Do not copy a mode number from an old video without checking current documentation. The correct mode depends on your environment, settings and gameplay needs.

## A configuration fragment to recognize

The following is illustrative structure rather than a drop-in config. Use the values and supported key names published for your exact Paper build:

```
anticheat:
  anti-xray:
    enabled: true
    engine-mode: 1
```

The real config may include additional keys for block lists, maximum height and other behavior. Avoid replacing the entire world-defaults file with a tiny snippet.

## Test what players actually see

Create a staging copy and connect with a normal client account. Compare behavior in Overworld, Nether and any other intended world. Verify that ordinary mining and legitimate resource discovery still feel natural. Review console errors and profiler output if there is a measurable cost.

Do not claim a plugin or built-in feature makes cheating impossible. Pair technical controls with consistent staff review and a clear appeal process.

## Understanding block lists

The official Paper reference distinguishes blocks to hide from replacement candidates. A block that is always visible in normal gameplay may be a poor candidate for obfuscation. Follow current project guidance on tile entities and special blocks. Copying incompatible lists can create unexpected visuals.

## Performance and compatibility testing

Observe MSPT during similar chunk delivery and exploration workloads before and after a change. If you compare at different player counts or without comparable exploration, the result is unreliable.

For profiling, see [How to Read a Spark Profiler Report](https://www.zcraftstudios.com/blog/how-to-read-spark-profiler-minecraft).

## Troubleshooting

| Symptom | Check first |

| --- | --- |

| Setting appears ignored | Correct world override and restart behavior |

| Unexpected visuals | Engine mode and replacement lists |

| More lag during exploration | Measured chunk-processing workload |

| Players still find ores unfairly | Anti-Xray limitations and moderation process |

| Different behavior in different worlds | Per-world overrides |

## Release checklist

- \[ \] Verified setting names in official version-specific reference
- \[ \] Saved original configuration
- \[ \] Applied minimal changes
- \[ \] Tested with a non-OP player
- \[ \] Compared representative performance
- \[ \] Documented a rollback plan

## Related guides

- [Paper Configuration Files Explained](https://www.zcraftstudios.com/blog/minecraft-paper-configuration-files-explained)
- [Anti-Cheat Plugins Compared](https://www.zcraftstudios.com/blog/minecraft-anticheat-plugins-compared)
- [Minecraft Server Performance Troubleshooting](https://www.zcraftstudios.com/blog/reduce-minecraft-server-lag)

**Conclusion:** Anti-Xray is one control in a broader fair-play strategy. Configure it from current documentation and test the actual player experience.

## Continue reading

- [Paper Reload vs Restart: Why Plugins Break After /reload](https://www.zcraftstudios.com/blog/paper-reload-versus-restart-explained)
- [Paper vs Fabric for Minecraft Servers: Which to Pick](https://www.zcraftstudios.com/blog/paper-vs-fabric-for-minecraft-server)
- [Setting Up Vulcan Anti-Cheat: A Configuration Guide](https://www.zcraftstudios.com/blog/vulcan-anticheat-setup-guide)
- [Best Minecraft Anti-Cheat Plugins: Grim, Vulcan, Matrix](https://www.zcraftstudios.com/blog/minecraft-anticheat-plugins-compared)

[ Previous guide Paper Reload vs Restart: Why Plugins Break After /reload](https://www.zcraftstudios.com/blog/paper-reload-versus-restart-explained)[ Next guide EssentialsX Config Guide: Messages, Chat and Modules](https://www.zcraftstudios.com/blog/essentialsx-config-guide-messages-chat)