Install Minecraft Java Edition
Back up your worlds
Choose a mod loader like Fabric, Forge, or NeoForge
Download and install the matching mod loader for your Minecraft version
Launch Minecraft once with the mod loader profile
Download mods from trusted sites
Make sure each mod matches your Minecraft version and mod loader
Open the Minecraft mods folder
Place the downloaded mod files into the mods folder
Start Minecraft using the mod loader profile
Check that the mods appear and load correctly
Remove any incompatible mods if the game crashes
Keep mod loader, mods, and Minecraft version compatible
Update mods only from trusted sources