How to fix Minecraft Launcher stuck downloading update files

Minecraft is a popular video game that requires players to construct structures and explore vast virtual worlds.

The game can be installed on various operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and Mac OS.

Sometimes, however, users face difficulties while downloading and installing Minecraft on their Windows 11/10 gaming computers.

The Minecraft installer or updater may become stuck on downloading files or resources, leaving players frustrated.

In this article, we will discuss some of the best solutions to fix Minecraft Launcher stuck downloading update files.

How to fix Minecraft Launcher stuck downloading update files

Here are some of the best solutions to fix Minecraft Launcher stuck downloading update files.

1. Check the Minecraft Server Status

The first thing you need to do when encountering Minecraft installer or updater issues is to check the Minecraft server status. If the Minecraft servers are down, you won’t be able to download or update the game. You can check the Minecraft server status by visiting the official Minecraft website or checking social media accounts.

2. Check your Internet Connection

A poor internet connection can cause the Minecraft installer or updater to become stuck while downloading files or resources. Below are some solutions to fix the internet connection issues:

• Restart your Modem or Router

Sometimes, restarting your modem or router can fix your internet connection issues. To restart your modem or router, follow the steps below:

1. Turn off your modem or router by unplugging it from the power source.
2. Wait for at least 30 seconds.
3. Turn your modem or router back on by plugging it into the power source.
4. Wait for a few minutes for the internet connection to establish.

• Disable VPN or Proxy

If you are using a VPN or proxy, disable them to see if it fixes the issue. VPNs or proxies can interfere with the internet connection, causing issues with the Minecraft installer or updater.

• Use a Wired Connection

If you are using a wireless connection, try using a wired connection instead. Wired connections provide more stable internet connections, which can fix the issue with the Minecraft installer or updater.

• Change DNS Server Address

Sometimes, changing the DNS server address can fix internet connection issues. To change the DNS server address, follow the steps below:

1. Open the Start menu and type “Network and Sharing Center.”
2. Click on “Change adapter settings.
3. Right-click on your internet connection and select “Properties.”
4. Select “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)” and click “Properties.”
5. Select “Use the following DNS server addresses” and enter “8.8.8.8” for the Preferred DNS server and “8.8.4.4” for the Alternate DNS server.
6. Click on OK and close all windows.

3. Disable Firewall or Antivirus

Firewall and antivirus software can sometimes interfere with Minecraft’s network connections.

To see if this is the issue, try temporarily disabling your firewall and antivirus software and see if the problem persists.

If this resolves the issue, you may need to add an exception for Minecraft in your firewall or antivirus settings.

4. Clear Minecraft Launcher Cache

Sometimes Minecraft launcher cache can cause issues with downloading or launching the game. To clear the cache, follow these steps:

1. Open Minecraft launcher and click on the three lines in the upper-right corner.
2. Click on Launch Options.
3. Click on the three dots next to the version you’re having trouble with and select Edit.
4. Scroll down and click on More Options.
5. In the Java arguments field, add “-Dminecraft.clearTextCache=true.”
6. Click on Save and try launching the game again.

5. Update Graphics Card Driver

If you are having graphical issues with Minecraft, it might be due to an outdated graphics card driver.

Check your graphics card manufacturer’s website for the latest driver updates and install them.

6. Use Alternative Download Links

If you’re having trouble downloading Minecraft from the official website, try using an alternative download link.

Some popular third-party download sites include CurseForge and Technic Launcher.

7. Remove Minecraft Launcher and Reinstall it

If none of the above solutions work, you may need to completely remove Minecraft launcher from your computer and reinstall it.

To do this, follow these steps:

1. Open Control Panel and select Programs and Features.
2. Find Minecraft Launcher in the list of installed programs and click on Uninstall.
3. Delete the Minecraft folder located in “%appdata%/.minecraft
4. Download and install the latest version of Minecraft launcher from the official website.

8. Disable Compatibility Mode for Overwolf Launcher

If you are using Overwolf launcher and having trouble launching Minecraft, try disabling compatibility mode for Overwolf.

To do this, follow these steps:

1. Right-click on Overwolf launcher and select Properties.
2. Click on the Compatibility tab.
3. Uncheck the box that says “Run this program in compatibility mode for:”
4. Click on OK and try launching Minecraft again.

9. Use a Different Version of Minecraft Launcher

If you’re still having trouble with Minecraft launcher, try using a different version of the launcher. You can download older versions of Minecraft launcher from the official website.

Conclusion

Minecraft is a popular game, but sometimes users may encounter issues with downloading or launching the game.

The above solutions should help you troubleshoot Minecraft Launcher stuck downloading update files and get back to playing Minecraft.

FAQs about Minecraft Launcher stuck downloading update files

Why can’t I download Minecraft?

There could be several reasons why you’re having trouble downloading Minecraft, such as network issues, firewall or antivirus interference, or cache issues. Try the above solutions to see if they resolve the issue.

Why won’t Minecraft launch?

There could be several reasons why Minecraft won’t launch, such as:

1. Outdated or incompatible graphics card driver
2. Conflicting software, such as antivirus or firewall
3. Compatibility mode enabled for the launcher
4. Corrupted or outdated launcher files
5. Insufficient system resources

Try the above solutions to see if they resolve the issue.

How do I update my graphics card driver?

You can update your graphics card driver by visiting the website of your graphics card manufacturer and downloading the latest driver for your specific graphics card model.

Alternatively, you can use driver updater software to automatically update your drivers.

Can I use a different version of Minecraft launcher?

Yes, you can use a different version of Minecraft launcher by downloading it from the official Minecraft website or by using an alternative launcher like MultiMC.

Will reinstalling Minecraft launcher delete my worlds and saves?

No, reinstalling Minecraft launcher will not delete your worlds and saves.

However, it is always recommended to make a backup of your worlds and saves before reinstalling any software.