Installation Guide
Complete step-by-step instructions for installing tModLoader on all platforms.
Before You Begin
Requirements
- A legitimate copy of Terraria installed
- Internet connection for downloading mods
- At least 1GB free storage space
- Administrator/root access (for installation)
Steam Installation (Recommended)
This is the easiest and recommended method. Steam handles all updates automatically and includes Workshop integration. After installation, check out our guide on using mods.
Open Steam
Launch the Steam client and make sure you're logged in to your account.
Search for tModLoader
In the Steam store, search for "tModLoader" in the search bar at the top.
Or click here:
Open tModLoader on SteamInstall (It's Free!)
Click the "Play Game" button. tModLoader is completely free - no purchase required.
Steam will download approximately 200-500MB depending on your platform.
Launch tModLoader
Once installed, find tModLoader in your Steam library and click "Play".
First launch may take a few minutes to set up files and folders.
Benefits of Steam Installation
- Automatic updates
- Steam Workshop integration
- Cloud saves support
- Easy multiplayer with friends
Manual Installation
For advanced users or platforms without Steam access. Requires manual updates.
Download from GitHub
Visit the GitHub releases page and download the latest version for your platform.
Go to GitHub ReleasesExtract Files
Extract the downloaded files to your Terraria installation directory.
Common Terraria Locations:
Windows (Steam):
C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\common\Terraria
Windows (GOG):
C:\GOG Games\Terraria
macOS:
~/Library/Application Support/Steam/steamapps/common/Terraria
Linux:
~/.steam/steam/steamapps/common/Terraria
Run tModLoader
Launch the tModLoader executable:
- Windows: Run
tModLoader.exe - macOS: Run
tModLoader(may need to allow in System Preferences) - Linux: Run
./tModLoader(may need to make executable first)
Platform-Specific Notes
Windows Installation Notes
.NET Framework Required: Install .NET Framework 4.7.2 or newer from Microsoft.
Administrator Rights: You may need to run as administrator for first launch.
Antivirus: Some antivirus software may flag tModLoader. Add it to exceptions if needed.
Firewall: Allow tModLoader through Windows Firewall for multiplayer.
macOS Installation Notes
Mono Framework: Install latest Mono framework from mono-project.com.
Gatekeeper: Right-click → Open to bypass Gatekeeper on first launch.
Permissions: May need to grant permissions in System Preferences → Security.
Linux Installation Notes
Mono Framework: Install via package manager (apt, yum, etc.).
Make Executable: Run chmod +x tModLoader before first launch.
Dependencies: May need additional libraries depending on distribution.
Sound Issues: Install PulseAudio if you experience audio problems.
Verifying Installation
How to confirm tModLoader is installed correctly:
✓ Check 1: Main Menu
You should see these new menu options:
- • Mod Browser - Browse and download mods
- • Mods - Enable/disable installed mods
- • Workshop - Develop and publish mods
✓ Check 2: Version Number
Bottom-left corner should show:
✓ Check 3: Folder Structure
Navigate to Documents/My Games/Terraria/ - you should see a "tModLoader" folder.
Installation Troubleshooting
Problem: "Missing .NET Framework"
Symptoms: Error message on launch about missing .NET
Solution:
- 1. Visit Microsoft's .NET download page
- 2. Download .NET Framework 4.7.2 or newer
- 3. Install and restart computer
- 4. Launch tModLoader again
Problem: "Antivirus Blocking tModLoader"
Symptoms: Installation fails or tModLoader won't run
Solution:
- • Add tModLoader folder to antivirus exceptions
- • Windows Defender: Settings → Virus & threat protection → Exclusions
- • Add entire Terraria/tModLoader directory
- • Temporarily disable antivirus during installation
Problem: "Slow First Launch"
Symptoms: tModLoader takes 5+ minutes to launch first time
This is Normal!
First launch performs these tasks:
- • Creating folder structure
- • Generating configuration files
- • Indexing vanilla content
- • Setting up mod browser database
GOG and Other Versions
Installing with GOG Version of Terraria
tModLoader works with GOG Galaxy and standalone GOG installations:
Option 1: Manual Installation
- 1. Download tModLoader from GitHub
- 2. Locate GOG Terraria folder (usually C:\GOG Games\Terraria)
- 3. Extract tModLoader files into that folder
- 4. Run tModLoader.exe
Option 2: Steam Free Download
Even if you own Terraria on GOG, you can download tModLoader free on Steam. It's a separate app and works independently.
Note: Workshop integration only available via Steam version. GOG users can still use in-game Mod Browser.
What's Next?
Installation Complete! 🎉
Now that tModLoader is installed, you're ready to start adding mods!