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Step 3 of 7
20 min

Installing and Configuring JOSM

JOSM (Java OpenStreetMap Editor) is the professional-grade desktop editor used by experienced mappers worldwide. It offers advanced features, powerful editing tools, and efficient workflows that web-based editors cannot match.

JOSM requires Java to run, so you'll first install Java, then JOSM itself, and finally configure essential plugins and settings to optimize your mapping workflow.

Part 1: Java Installation

JOSM is built on Java technology, so your system needs the Java Runtime Environment (JRE) to execute the application.

Installing Java

  • Visit java.com/download in your browser
  • Click the 'Download Java' button for your operating system
  • Run the downloaded installer file
  • Follow the installation wizard (accept default settings)
  • Wait for installation to complete
  • Restart your computer to ensure Java is properly registered

Part 2: JOSM Installation

With Java installed, you're ready to install JOSM. Always download from the official website to ensure you get the latest stable version.

Downloading and Installing JOSM

  • Navigate to josm.openstreetmap.de
  • Click 'Download' in the main navigation
  • For Windows: Download 'Windows Installer'
  • For Mac: Download the .dmg package
  • For Linux: Download the .jar file
  • Run the installer and follow the setup wizard
  • Launch JOSM to verify successful installation
  • You should see the JOSM welcome screen

First Launch: JOSM may appear blank or show warnings about missing data. This is normal. We'll configure everything in the next steps.

Part 3: Essential Plugin Installation

JOSM's power comes from its plugin ecosystem. These extensions add crucial functionality for efficient mapping work.

Installing Required Plugins

  • In JOSM, go to Edit → Preferences (or press F12)
  • Click the 'Plugins' icon (looks like a puzzle piece)
  • Wait for the plugin list to load
  • Search for and check these essential plugins:
  • • building_tools - Streamlines building digitization
  • • utilsplugin2 - Adds advanced editing features
  • • todo - Task management within JOSM
  • • imagery_offset_db - Corrects satellite image alignment
  • Click 'OK' to download and install
  • Restart JOSM when prompted

Part 4: Initial Configuration

Proper JOSM configuration improves performance and makes mapping more efficient.

Recommended Settings

  • Open Preferences (F12) → Connection Settings
  • Enter your OSM username and password (this allows JOSM to upload your edits)
  • Go to Map Settings → Projection
  • Ensure 'Mercator' is selected (default)
  • In Display Settings, adjust interface size if needed for your screen
  • Enable 'Draw boundaries of downloaded data' to see your work area

Expert Tip: Spend time learning JOSM's keyboard shortcuts. Press 'H' at any time to see a help dialog with available shortcuts for your current mode.

Key Takeaways

  • Install Java first, then JOSM
  • Essential plugins: building_tools, utilsplugin2, todo, imagery_offset_db
  • Configure your OSM credentials in JOSM preferences
  • Learn keyboard shortcuts to dramatically improve mapping speed