Minecraft updates automatically on most computers, but you can also check for and install updates manually in a few seconds

When you launch Minecraft on Windows or Mac, the launcher checks for updates and installs them before the game starts. You do not need to do anything — just open the launcher and wait. If you want to check right now without waiting for the next launch, or if an update is stuck, you can force a check from the launcher's settings.

The process differs slightly between the original Java Edition (the version most PC players use) and Bedrock Edition (the Windows 10/11 version). Both update through their respective launchers, and both are free to update once you own the game.

Key Takeaways

  • Java Edition updates automatically when you open the launcher, and you can manually check for updates in the launcher's settings under "Installations."
  • Bedrock Edition (Windows 10/11) updates through the Microsoft Store, and you can force a check by opening the Store and searching for Minecraft.
  • If an update is stuck or not installing, restart the launcher completely and check your internet connection.
  • You do not need to uninstall Minecraft to update it — the launcher replaces old files with new ones automatically.

Updating Java Edition through the Launcher

Open the Minecraft Launcher on your computer. If you do not have it, read it from minecraft.net. Once the launcher is open, it will check for updates in the background. You will see a progress bar at the bottom of the window if an update is available.

Wait for the launcher to finish downloading and installing the update. This usually takes one to five minutes depending on your internet speed and the size of the update. Once the progress bar disappears, the update is complete and you can click "Play" to start the game.

If you want to check for updates manually without waiting, click the "Installations" tab at the top of the launcher. Find the version you play (usually "Latest Release" for the current version). If an update is available, you will see a read icon next to the version name. Click it to start the update when ready.

Updating Bedrock Edition through the Microsoft Store

Bedrock Edition is the version that comes with Windows 10 and Windows 11. It updates through the Microsoft Store, not through a separate launcher. Open the Microsoft Store app on your computer (search for "Microsoft Store" in your Start menu).

Once the Store is open, click the profile icon in the top right corner and select "App settings." Scroll down and click "Check for updates." The Store will scan for updates to all your apps, including Minecraft. If an update is available, it will read and install automatically.

Alternatively, you can search for "Minecraft" directly in the Microsoft Store. If an update is waiting, you will see an "Update" button instead of "Play." Click it to install the latest version.

What to Do If an Update Is Stuck or Not Installing

If the launcher shows a progress bar that does not move, or if you have been waiting longer than ten minutes, close the launcher completely. Do not just minimize it — right-click the launcher window and select "Close," or use Alt+F4 on Windows.

Check your internet connection. Open a web browser and visit a website to confirm you are connected. If your connection is slow or unstable, wait a few minutes and try again. Minecraft updates are usually 100 to 500 megabytes, so a slow connection can take longer than expected.

Once you have confirmed your connection is working, reopen the launcher. It will resume checking for updates. If the same update gets stuck again, restart your computer and try once more. A full restart clears temporary files that may be blocking the read.

Understanding Version Numbers and Release Types

Minecraft releases updates in different categories: snapshots, pre-releases, and full releases. The launcher defaults to the latest full release, which is the stable version most players use. Full releases are tested thoroughly and rarely cause problems.

Snapshots are test versions released weekly that contain new features before they are officially released. Pre-releases come out a few days before a full release and are closer to the final version. If you want to play snapshots or pre-releases, you must select them manually in the "Installations" tab of the launcher. The launcher will not automatically switch you to a snapshot — you have to choose it.

Sticking with the latest full release is the safest choice if you are not sure. Snapshots can have bugs, and switching between versions can sometimes cause problems with your saved worlds.

Checking Your Current Minecraft Version

To see which version of Minecraft you are running, open the launcher and look at the bottom left corner of the window. It will show the version number next to "Latest Release" or whichever installation you have selected. You can also check inside the game: click "Singleplayer," select a world, and look at the bottom left of the pause menu — it shows your current version there too.

If you want to know whether a newer version exists, visit minecraft.net/read. The website lists the current version number. Compare it to the version shown in your launcher. If they match, you are up to date.

Freeing Up Disk Space Before Updating

Minecraft updates need temporary space on your hard drive while they read and install. If your computer is very full, the update may fail partway through. Check how much free space you have: on Windows, right-click your C: drive in File Explorer and select "Properties." You should have at least 2 to 3 gigabytes free.

If you are running low on space, delete old files you no longer need, empty your Recycle Bin, or uninstall programs you do not use. Once you have freed up space, try the update again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I lose my worlds and settings when I update?

No. Updates replace only the game files, not your saved worlds or settings. Your worlds, skins, and launcher settings stay exactly as they were. You can play the same worlds in the new version without any extra steps.

Can I play while an update is installing?

No. The launcher will not let you click "Play" until the update is finished. You have to wait for the progress bar to disappear. This usually takes a few minutes.

What if I want to keep playing an older version?

In Java Edition, you can select any older version from the "Installations" tab in the launcher. Click the version you want and then click "Play." Bedrock Edition does not let you downgrade — it always updates to the latest version automatically.

Why is my update taking so long?

Large updates can take five to fifteen minutes on slower internet connections. Minecraft updates range from 100 to 500 megabytes depending on what changed. If it has been stuck for more than twenty minutes, restart the launcher and try again.

Do I need to uninstall Minecraft to update it?

No. The launcher handles all updates without uninstalling anything. Just let it finish and you are done.