Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common Minecraft Launcher questions: download, gameplay, errors, and account setup.
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The official desktop application for launching Minecraft: Java Edition, Bedrock Edition, Minecraft Dungeons, and Minecraft Legends on PC. It handles downloads, updates, account sign-in, and game configuration.
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From Microsoft Store or minecraft.net/download. See our install guide.
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The launcher is free. You need a valid Minecraft license (Java, Bedrock, or bundle) on your Microsoft account to play. Dungeons and Legends require separate purchases.
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Launcher → Settings → About for in-app updates. Or Microsoft Store → Library → Get updates.
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Java Edition supports Forge, Fabric, and Quilt mods via custom installations. Bedrock uses Marketplace add-ons. Guide: manage installations.
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Linux supports Java Edition only. Bedrock, Dungeons, and Legends are not available on Linux through the launcher.
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Some Chromebooks with Linux support can run Java Edition. Bedrock on Chromebook uses different distribution paths. Check your device's compatibility with Minecraft official requirements.
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Shortcuts to recently played worlds in the launcher for one-click launch. Requires Java 1.20+ or Bedrock 1.20.60+. Quick Play guide.
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Separate sidebar tabs. Java: mods, custom servers, all desktop OS. Bedrock: cross-play, Marketplace, Windows 10+ only. Full comparison.
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Yes. Join Realms in-game; they appear in Quick Play after first visit. Java Realms and Bedrock Realms are separate subscriptions.
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Account sync or Gaming Services issue. Full fix guide.
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Often DNS, VPN, or Xbox infrastructure. Connection fix guide.
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Try repair launcher, update GPU drivers, delete launcher_profiles.json. Launch fix guide.
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Update Xbox app and Gaming Services. Crash fix guide.
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Stale profile after account migration. Username fix guide.
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Uninstall the legacy launcher and install the current Microsoft Store version. Migration guide.
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Create a new installation and select a snapshot version from the dropdown. Installations guide.
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Launcher is dedicated to Mojang games with Java mod support. Xbox app handles Game Pass and social features. Full comparison.
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Java Edition:
%appdata%\.minecraft\saves. Bedrock on Windows uses a separate UWP package folder. Back up before reinstalls. -
No. We are an independent informational site. Download only from Microsoft Store or minecraft.net. About us.