If you’re trying to launch Minecraft 1.21.4 and getting errors, chances are you need Java 17. Minecraft 1.18 and later versions require Java 17 to run correctly. Without it, you might encounter issues like “Java not found” or “Could not create Java Virtual Machine” errors.
This guide will walk you through downloading and installing Java 17, ensuring Minecraft runs smoothly on your computer. Let’s get started!
Why Do You Need Java 17 for Minecraft?
✔ Minecraft 1.18+ requires Java 17 – Older Java versions won’t work.
✔ Fixes startup errors – Prevents crashes and loading issues.
✔ Better performance – Faster game loading and fewer memory leaks.
✔ Supports mods and servers – Many modpacks and plugins require Java 17.
If your game doesn’t start or crashes, updating to Java 17 will fix the problem.
How To Download Java 17 for Minecraft 1.21.4
- Click the download link below to visit the official Java page.
- Select the version that matches your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
- Click Download and wait for the file to finish.
How To Install Java 17
Now that you have Java 17, let’s install it:
Check Your System (32-bit or 64-bit)
✔ Right-click This PC → Select Properties.
✔ Look for System Type (shows if your PC is 32-bit or 64-bit).
✔ Make sure you downloaded the right version!
Run the Installer
✔ Open the Java 17 installer from your Downloads folder.
✔ Click Install and follow the setup instructions.
✔ Wait for installation to complete.
Verify Installation
✔ Open Command Prompt (CMD).
✔ Type: java -version and press Enter.
✔ You should see Java 17 installed successfully!
Minecraft is now ready to run!
How To Launch Minecraft with Java 17
Now that Java 17 is installed, follow these steps:
✔ Open Minecraft Launcher.
✔ Select Minecraft 1.21.4 from the dropdown menu.
✔ Click Play and enjoy!
Still having issues? Restart your PC and try launching Minecraft again.
Troubleshooting & Fixes
Minecraft says “Java is outdated”
✔ Open Minecraft Launcher and update it.
✔ Check that Java 17 is installed by running java -version in CMD.
Minecraft is still using an older Java version
✔ Open Minecraft Launcher → Installations.
✔ Click on your Minecraft version → More Options.
✔ Under Java Executable, click Browse and select Java 17’s file path.
Final Thoughts
That’s it! You’ve successfully installed Java 17 for Minecraft 1.21.4. Whether you’re playing vanilla Minecraft, modpacks, or hosting a server, Java 17 ensures better stability and fewer crashes.
- More Minecraft Tutorials: https://minecraftsketchbros.eu
- Download Java 17: Click here
- Download OpenGL: Click here