How to Download Minecraft Mods

Last Updated: June 10, 2021

Minecraft can be modified, or “modded,” to improve and increase the number of available options in a Minecraft game. Mods can add anything from a single item as simple as a different kind of dirt, to thousands of new blocks and items! A wide selection of mods can be downloaded for later installation, after they’ve been checked to ensure the file is safe.

Part 1

Part 1 of 2:

Finding a Mod Download Website

1
Understand that modifying Minecraft can cause issues that will stop the game from running correctly. Additionally, it is important not to download files that may be harmful to your computer.
2
Search for a mod download page on your favorite Internet browser. There are many websites where mods can be downloaded. One well-known example is http://www.minecraftforum.net/forums/mapping-and-modding/minecraft-mods.

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3
Choose a mod download page that seems to be well used and trusted by Minecraft users. You may want to ask other Minecraft users what sites they use before you begin this process.
4
Look through the available mods. Read the descriptions to find a mod that will help you adjust the game to your liking.

Part 2

Part 2 of 2:

Downloading a Mod

1
Find the download link for your selected mod. Since there is no official mod download site, it can be in a number of different locations on the page.
2
Click on the download link and follow the onscreen instructions. There may be ads and popups. Be careful to skip the advertisements and click directly on the file you want to download.
3
Make sure the download file is in the .jar format. Be wary if the download contains other file types as these could contain malware or viruses. Check your downloads folder to view the file format if it downloaded automatically.
- You may need to unzip the file to see its file format. Files are often compressed to decrease the download time.^{[1]
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- To tell if the file is a jar or zip file on Windows, right click on the file and choose "Properties". The file name will appear at the top of the "General" tab and should end with ".zip" or ".jar".
- To tell if the file is a jar or zip file on Mac, right click on the file and choose "Get Info". Click on the triangle next to "Name & Extension" to show the file's name. The file should end with ".zip" or ".jar".
- If the file was a zip file, make sure it's contents are a jar file.
4
Run the downloaded file through anti-virus software to ensure it is not harmful. Then, once vetted, you can install your mod.

Community Q&A

Question

What do I do if it says that the file has a virus?

Community Answer

Best be careful of it, because files with viruses can hurt your devices. You should try to find another mod.
Question

How do I know if a mod has a virus?

Community Answer

Use an anti-virus program to scan the file, and if the program detects a virus, delete it.
Question

How do I download mods onto Minecraft PE?

Community Answer

You cannot download them for the PE.