How to install mBlock 5 on Windows 10 and 11 (step by step)
Download and install mBlock 5, Makeblock's free block-coding app, on Windows 10 or 11: official download, SmartScreen and UAC prompts, and quick fixes.
mBlock 5 is free to download from the official site, mblock.cc. It is Makeblock’s Scratch-based app for coding robots such as the mBot and mBot2, and it can also switch to Python. This guide takes you through installing it on Windows 10 or 11.
Before you start
- A Windows 10 or 11 PC with an administrator account (or an adult who has one).
- Around 1 GB of free disk space for the download and the installed app (the installer itself is roughly 380 MB).
- A stable internet connection.
No PC? mBlock also runs in a browser at ide.mblock.cc, with the mLink helper to connect hardware.
Step 1: Download the installer
- Open mblock.cc, Download.
- Choose Windows and download mBlock 5.
- The
.exefile lands in your Downloads folder.
Step 2: Run the installer
- Double-click the
.exefile. - Windows asks “Do you want to allow this app to make changes?” (User Account Control): click Yes.
- The installer runs on its own, with a progress bar.
- When you see Finish, mBlock is installed and a shortcut appears on the desktop.
Step 3: First launch
Open mBlock 5, then pick your device (for example mBot or mBot2) in the Devices panel. You can change the interface language in the app settings.
Quick fixes
| Problem | What to try |
|---|---|
The .exe won’t start | Right-click → Properties → Unblock if shown; run as administrator; download again. |
| ”Windows protected your PC” (SmartScreen) | More info → Run anyway, only if the file came from mblock.cc. |
| Installation stops with an error | Your antivirus may be blocking it: allow the installer, then retry. |
| No admin rights (school PC) | Ask the IT department, or use the browser version. |
| Robot not detected | Plug it in by USB first; for Bluetooth on mBot, see Makeblock’s help pages. |
FAQ
Is mBlock 5 free? Yes, the app and the browser version are free from Makeblock.
Does it work on a Mac or a Chromebook? There is a macOS version on the same download page; on a Chromebook, use the browser version.
Which robot should I buy to go with it? See our guide to programmable robots for kids.