Quick Summary
The "Invalid Session" error in Minecraft typically means the game is having trouble verifying your login status with the Minecraft servers. This can happen due to various authentication issues or temporary server problems.
Common Causes
- Authentication Failure: The most common cause is a failure in the authentication process between your Minecraft client and Mojang/Microsoft's servers. Your game session data might be out of sync.
- Outdated Game Client: An outdated version of the Minecraft launcher or game client may not be compatible with the latest server protocols, leading to authentication issues.
- Internet Connectivity Issues: A temporary disruption in your internet connection can interrupt the authentication process, causing the session to become invalid.
- Server-Side Problems: Mojang/Microsoft servers might be experiencing outages or maintenance, preventing proper session validation.
- Conflicting Mods/Resource Packs: In some cases, particular mods or resource packs can interfere with the game's authentication process.
- Corrupted Game Files: Damaged or incomplete installation files can cause issues with authentication and the game's stability.
Step-by-Step Fixes
Method 1: Restart Minecraft and the Launcher
Step 1: Close both the Minecraft game and the Minecraft Launcher completely.
Step 2: Wait a few seconds, then reopen the Minecraft Launcher.
Step 3: Launch Minecraft again.
Step 4: This simple restart can often resolve temporary authentication glitches.
Method 2: Restart Your Computer
Step 1: Save any work in progress and close all applications.
Step 2: Restart your computer.
Step 3: After the restart, open the Minecraft Launcher and try launching the game again. This can clear temporary system-level issues.
Method 3: Check Your Internet Connection
Step 1: Ensure your internet connection is stable. Check if you can access other websites or online services.
Step 2: If you are using Wi-Fi, try restarting your router.
Step 3: If the issue persists, contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP) to check for any network outages in your area.
Method 4: Log Out and Back In to the Launcher
Step 1: Open the Minecraft Launcher.
Step 2: Click on your profile name in the bottom-left corner of the launcher.
Step 3: Select "Log Out".
Step 4: Enter your email address and password, then click "Log In". Confirm the correct email is being used.
Step 5: Try launching Minecraft.
Method 5: Update the Minecraft Launcher and Game
Step 1: Open the Minecraft Launcher.
Step 2: The launcher usually checks for updates automatically. If not, look for an "Update" button and click it.
Step 3: Once the launcher is up to date, ensure the game version you're trying to launch is also the latest. Select the latest version in the dropdown menu (if visible, otherwise the latest version should automatically be used).
Method 6: Flush Your DNS
Step 1: Open Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (macOS/Linux).
Step 2: Type the following command and press Enter: ipconfig /flushdns (Windows) or sudo dscacheutil -flushcache; sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder (macOS).
Step 3: Restart your computer and try launching Minecraft again.
Method 7: Disable Mods and Resource Packs
Step 1: If you are using any mods or resource packs (especially Forge, OptiFine on older versions or similar) disable them temporarily.
Step 2: Launch Minecraft without any mods or resource packs. If the error is resolved, try enabling each mod/resource pack one by one to identify the culprit.
Method 8: Reinstall Minecraft
Step 1: Uninstall Minecraft completely from your computer.
Step 2: Delete any remaining Minecraft-related folders (e.g., .minecraft in your user directory).
Step 3: Download the latest version of the Minecraft Launcher from the official Minecraft website.
Step 4: Install the launcher and re-download the necessary game files.
Step 5: Launch Minecraft.
Method 9: Check Minecraft Server Status
Step 1: Visit a website that provides Minecraft server status updates (e.g., Downdetector, or official Minecraft forums).
Step 2: Check if there are any reported server outages or maintenance activities.
Step 3: If there is a server issue on Mojang's end, all you can do is wait for them to resolve it.