How to Install Minecraft Mods (Java & Bedrock, 26.3)

How does modding differ by edition?

• Java Edition: true mods — code that changes anything in the game, loaded by a mod loader
• Bedrock Edition: add-ons — official data packs (behavior + resource packs) that add mobs, items, and blocks; see mods vs add-ons

Installing Java mods, step by step

1. Pick a loader matching your game version:
   • Fabric — lightweight, fastest updates, home of Sodium/Iris/performance mods
   • NeoForge — the modern Forge fork; big content mods and modpacks
   • Forge — legacy giant, still required by older modpacks
2. Run the loader’s installer, then launch the game once on the new profile — it creates a mods folder
3. Download mods only from Modrinth or CurseForge — match the loader AND game version exactly (a Fabric 26.3 mod won’t run on Forge or 26.2)
4. Drop the .jar into mods/ and launch — a working install shows in the mods list

Start with the trio almost everyone installs: Sodium (FPS), Iris (shader support — see install shaders), Lithium (tick performance).

Installing Bedrock add-ons

• Double-click a .mcaddon/.mcpack file — Minecraft imports it
• Create/edit a world → Behavior packs / Resource packs → activate — packs apply per world
• Marketplace add-ons work on all Bedrock platforms including consoles; third-party packs need file access (PC/mobile)
• Enable “Experimental Features” toggles when a pack requires them

The rules that save your world

• Backup saves before modding — copy the saves folder
• Mods break on updates — wait for your loader and mods to support a new drop before updating a modded world
• One source only: Modrinth, CurseForge, official Marketplace — nothing else
• Servers: play modded with friends by running a modded dedicated server — server guide

What to read next

• Mods vs Add-ons — what each ecosystem can actually do
• Install Shaders — Iris on Java, Vibrant Visuals on Bedrock
• Make a Server — modded multiplayer