---
title: Java Edition (official launcher)
summary: Install the Mojang launcher and verify your account works.
order: 1
---

# Java Edition (official launcher)

The Mojang/Microsoft launcher is the only officially supported way to play Java Edition.

## Download

1. Go to [minecraft.net/download](https://www.minecraft.net/en-us/download).
2. Download the launcher for your OS:
   - **Windows:** `.msi` installer.
   - **macOS:** `.dmg` disk image.
   - **Linux:** `.deb`, `.tar.gz`, or via your distro's package manager (e.g. `sudo pacman -S minecraft-launcher` on Arch).
3. Run the installer and launch it.

## Sign in

You need a **Microsoft account** with a Minecraft license attached. If you bought Minecraft before 2020 and still use a Mojang account, the launcher will prompt you to migrate — follow the steps. Migration is free.

If you see "Failed to authenticate":

- Check that your Microsoft account hasn't been switched to a child account or moved to a family group without Minecraft access.
- Try [account.live.com/Authorize](https://account.live.com/Authorize) to clear stale tokens.

## Pick a version

Our servers run **Minecraft 1.21.4**. In the launcher:

1. Click **Installations** (top of the launcher).
2. Click **New installation**.
3. Set **Version** to `release 1.21.4`.
4. Save — the launcher downloads it on first play.

## Connect to a server

1. From the launcher, click **Play** on your `1.21.4` installation.
2. In Minecraft: **Multiplayer** → **Add Server**.
3. Server name: anything (e.g. "Survival").
4. Server address: the address you got from the admin (e.g. `survival.g.timemachine.center`).
5. **Done** → select the server → **Join Server**.

## What's next

- If you have a paid (Java) account: nothing — the server recognizes you automatically and you'll spawn into the world.
- If you don't have a paid account: see the [offline client](./offline-client) guide.
- Either way, register your username on Discord first — the server will ask you to before it lets you in.