How to Fix a JNI Error in Minecraft

You sit down in front of your computer to start playing a nice, relaxing game of Minecraft, and then bang, you’re hit with the dreaded JNI error. The JNI error typically occurs when you are attempting to start Minecraft and will stop you from getting to the main menu entirely.

Fortunately, you can read on to learn how to fix a JNI error in Minecraft.

How to Fix a JNI Error in Minecraft by Installing Java Update

JNI stands for Java Native Interface. Therefore, if you’re seeing the JNI error when you try to load Minecraft, it means the problem is related to Java. It also means that means that the solution is Java-related. There are a few methods for resolving your JNI problem and getting Minecraft working again.

The first of these is to download and install the latest version of Java. If you’re running an outdated version of Java on your computer, there is a high probability that it might be blocking out Minecraft. Fortunately, there is no need to stress because updating Java is a relatively straightforward process.

Here are the steps for installing the newest version of Java on your computer:

1. Close the Minecraft app and launcher.
2. On your web browser go to the official Java website.
   
3. Select the Linux, Mac, or Windows tab depending on what operating system you’re running.
   
4. Click on the link to download the File Installer, then open it.
   
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to download and install Java.
   
6. Once the latest version of Java has been installed, check to see if it corrected the JNI error.

The latest versions of Java are all backward compatible. Thus, once you’ve updated it, you should be able to play any version of Minecraft that runs on Java.

How to Fix a JNI Error in Minecraft by Removing Broken Java System Variables on Windows

If installing the newest iteration of Java on your computer fails to address the JNI error, then the problem stems from another source. Most likely, it’s being caused by a corrupted system path for Java. This scenario is slightly more technical but is still simple enough to get done so you can get back to your Minecraft adventure quickly and without too much hassle.

Follow the below steps to delete broken system path variables for Java on Windows:

1. Press the Windows + R keys to open the Run Dialog Box.
   
2. Type in sysdm.cpl and hit Enter to open System Properties.
   
3. Click on the Advanced tab.
   
4. Select the Environment Variables button at the bottom of the window.
   
5. Click on Path under the System Variables heading.
   
6. Once highlighted, select the Edit button.
   
7. Locate and select the Environment Variables related to Java. They typically end in /javapath.
   
8. Click on Delete on the right side of the window.
   
9. Restart your computer and check to see if the JNI error is fixed.

How to Fix a JNI Error in Minecraft by Removing Broken Java System Variables on a Mac

If you own a Mac, then deleting your corrupted Java environment variables requires a different approach:

1. Go to Finder on your Mac.
   
2. Select Applications from the sidebar menu on the left.
   
3. Locate and click on the Utilities folder.
   
4. Find and select Terminal and enter printenv to display your environmental variables.
   
   
5. Identify and select the Environment Variables related to Java. They typically end in /javapath.
6. Select and delete the Java environment variables.
7. Restart your Mac and check to see if the JNI error is repaired.

Other Possible Causes and Solutions to Fix a JNI Error in Minecraft

While a JNI error can usually be fixed by installing the latest version of Java or removing the corrupted Java file paths, these methods are not guaranteed to work. If they don’t resolve the issue there’s no need to despair because there are still some options you can try that may eradicate the JNI error from your life.

• Execute a clean boot: Another possible cause of your JNI error may be that external applications are disrupting Minecraft. You can do a clean boot of your computer and individually disable the processes until you’ve found the source of the JNI error. After the source has been identified, you can remove it to fix the problem.
• Update Minecraft mods: Mods literally modify the game and allow you to do unique things. However, they can also be the source of your JNI error. Simply, ensure that all of your Minecraft mods are up to date to either resolve the issue or rule them out as the cause.
• System updates: If your system is outdated then this can lead to compatibility issues and possibly lead to the Minecraft JNI error. Make sure that all of your system updates are up-to-date to avoid compatibility problems that may be causing your Minecraft suffering.
• Reinstall Minecraft: Your JNI error may be a continual problem that keeps reoccurring no matter what fix you implement. If so, you can try completely uninstalling Minecraft from your computer and reinstalling it. This will remove any corrupted files within the game itself that may be the source of the JNI error.
• Update Minecraft: Similar to your system updates, if the game itself is not up to date, then it could be causing compatibility issues and playing a role in your JNI error. Ensure that you have the latest version of Minecraft installed on your computer to address the problem if it’s related to Minecraft updates.
• Uninstall Java: You may download and install the latest version of Java but are still experiencing the JNI error. If so, it may be that it’s being affected by a prior Java installation that still exists in your system. To ensure that a previous version of Java is not disrupting Minecraft, make sure that you’ve uninstalled any previous iterations of Java that may still be on your computer.
• Graphics drivers: If your computer is running incompatible or outdated graphics drivers then this can cause the JNI error. Check that your graphics drivers are compatible and up to date to fix the issue if it’s driver-related.

FAQs

Can I still play Minecraft without fixing the JNI error?

No, not only will you not be able to play Minecraft without addressing the JNI error but you won’t even be able to access the game at all.

Could my hardware be causing the JNI error?

It’s unlikely but in rare occasions, yes. Minecraft like most games will have minimum hardware requirements in order for the game to work. If your hardware doesn’t meet these requirements then there is a chance that it may be the source of your JNI error.

Say Goodbye to JNI Errors

If you can’t even access the game because of a JNI error, you’re missing out on a whole world of fun. Fortunately, no matter what is causing the error, it can be quickly resolved by updating Java and the launcher. So, you can get back to creating your very own digital paradise.

Are there any other common errors you’ve experienced in Minecraft? Let us know how you overcame them in the comments section below.