Frequently asked questions
Answers focus on HMCL as a Minecraft launcher: licensing, integrity, security signals, and everyday usage. For step workflows, pair this page with Guides and Download.
HMCL is licensed under the GNU General Public License version 3. In practical terms, you may run the software, study how it works, share copies, and distribute modified versions if you follow GPLv3 conditions such as providing corresponding source for distributed object code.
This website content is separate from the HMCL program license. Read notices bundled with each release for authoritative legal text.
Heuristic engines look for behaviors such as downloading payloads, writing into profile directories, and spawning Java. Launchers share those patterns with unrelated software categories, so false positives occur.
Mitigate risk by verifying SHA256 for the exact file you downloaded, downloading only from channels you trust, and following the antivirus chapter on the Guides page.
No. HMCL is a launcher and tooling layer. You remain responsible for complying with Mojang and Microsoft terms for Minecraft products you use, including account rules and multiplayer conduct policies.
Compute SHA256 locally and compare with the checksum published for that exact file name and version. If maintainers publish multiple artifacts per release, each artifact should have its own hash line.
If hashes disagree, treat the file as untrusted until you can obtain a matching artifact from a known-good channel.
HMCL targets mainstream Java mod loaders such as Forge, NeoForge, Fabric, Quilt, LiteLoader, and OptiFine-oriented flows. Availability depends on the Minecraft version you selected and upstream publishing status.
Start with Java major version alignment, then loader compatibility, then the newest crash log. The Guides page provides an ordered triage path so you change one variable at a time.
GPLv3 allows redistribution under defined conditions, including offering corresponding source when you distribute object code. Organizations should have counsel review compliance for their exact distribution method, especially if you modify binaries or bundle proprietary tools.
Expect any launcher to contact update endpoints, download mirrors, and authentication services as part of normal operation. Your worlds, screenshots, and local mods remain on disk unless you upload them elsewhere.
Corporate users should capture traffic in a controlled lab if they need a precise disclosure for security review.