How to Download and Install Forge for Minecraft

Before we start, here is the Index for you to easily move around this guide:

What will you learn ?

In this step-by-step guide, you will learn how to download and install Forge for Minecraft Java. Forge will allow you to add mods to Minecraft and make the game overall just way more fun.

With Forge, you will also be able to add Optifine which will allow you to run Minecraft with Shaders and make the game run smoother and as well as look better.

What is Forge?

Forge for Minecraft is a modding platform and API that allows players to customize and expand the Minecraft gameplay experience. It enables the installation and management of various mods, which introduce new features, items, and mechanics to the game. Forge simplifies mod development and ensures compatibility between mods. It is primarily used with Minecraft’s Java Edition.

Guide

Step 1 – How to Download Forge for Minecraft Java

Now select your desired version of Forge, in this guide we will be using Forge 1.20. However, you can use the version you find more suitable, then click the Installer button as shown below.

You will be redirected to a site where you will have a five-second wait time.

After five seconds, a button labeled as Skip will appear in the top right corner, click it to start downloading the Forge installer file.

You can find the Forge installer in your most recent downloads or within your downloads’ folder.

Step 2 – How to Install Forge for Minecraft Java

After completing the first step, you are ready to install Forge.

Before you install, run Minecraft vanilla once, make sure you run the matching version for your Forge instance. For example, if you are installing Forge 1.20, make sure you run Minecraft 1.20 at least once, then completely close the game and the launcher.

Find the installer file we downloaded previously, and double click it to open it,

You will need to have Java updated on your computer.

Once the Forge Mod system installer is open, make sure it is set to “Install client”, and then click OK.

This will start the Forge installation, now just patiently wait, again, we recommend you update Java first.

You will know Forge has been successfully installed because you will get a popup like the one shown below.

Step 3 – How to use Forge with Minecraft Java

After installing Forge following the previous step, go ahead and launch your Minecraft Launcher.

If you installed Forge properly, you should see it automatically selected in the bottom left as shown below.

You are now ready to play using Forge and adding mods.

Here are the Top 50 client-side mods for Minecraft

Frequently Asked Questions about Forge

Installed Forge, but it doesn’t show on the Minecraft Launcher?

“Help, I installed Forge, but it doesn’t appear in my Minecraft Launcher!”

First, you have to make sure you have updated Java to at least Java 17, after updating Java we recommend running a Jarfix to fix your jar files.

Then make sure that you have run the Minecraft version that matches your Forge version, at least once, before installing Forge. Make sure you close the game and the launcher as well before installing Forge.

After you installed everything properly and even installed Forge, you have to make sure you have selected the modded options inside your Minecraft Launcher. This step will make sure your Forge installation appears within your Installations tab in your launcher.

If nothing worked so far to make Forge show, go ahead and click New Installation within your Installation tabs.

Inside the Create new installation tab, click Version, find release x.xx forge (replace x with your Forge version) and click it.

Name the new installation whatever you prefer.

Now enjoy your new instance of Forge.

Is Forge safe to download?

Forge itself is generally considered safe to use. It is a reputable and widely used modding platform for Minecraft. However, it’s important to exercise caution when downloading and installing mods from external sources.

Are mods created for Forge safe to use?

Forge provides a secure framework, but it’s important to download mods from trusted sources. Be cautious and ensure that mods come from reputable websites to avoid potential security risks.

Can I use multiple mods with Forge?

Yes, Forge handles mod compatibility and allows you to use multiple mods simultaneously. However, conflicts between mods can occasionally occur, so it’s important to check compatibility and troubleshoot if issues arise.

Can I play multiplayer with Forge and mods?

Forge supports multiplayer, but all players need to have the same mods installed to join the same server. Ensure that the server you’re connecting to, allows modded clients.

How to uninstall Forge ?

To uninstall Forge, simply find it within the installations tab inside your Minecraft launcher.

Click the three dots that appear on the right when you hover over Forge, and select Delete.

After you click “Delete” you will get a popup sign asking you if you want to delete Forge, just click the Delete button, and that is it.