Installing Software on Your Windows PC

Installing software on your Windows PC

Your computer allows you to do some really amazing things. Digital photo editing, sophisticated computer gaming, video streaming—all of these things are possible because of different types of software. Developers are always creating new software applications, which allow you to do even more with your computer.

Installing from a CD-ROM

From the mid-1990s through the late 2000s, the most common way to get new software was to purchase a CD-ROM. You could then insert the disc, and the computer would walk you through through the installation.

Now, almost all software has moved away from this model. Many new computers no longer include a CD-ROM for this reason. However, if you do need to install software from a CD-ROM, simply insert the disc into your computer, then follow the instructions.

Installing software from the Web

Today, the most common way to get new software is to download it from the Internet. Applications like Microsoft Office and Adobe Photoshop can now be purchased and downloaded right to your computer. You can also install free software this way. For example, if you wanted to install the Google Chrome web browser, you can visit this page and click the Download button.

The installation file will be saved to your computer in .exe format. Pronounceddot e-x-e, this is the standard extension for installation files on Windows computers. You can follow the steps below to install an application from an .exe file.

1. Locate and download an .exe file.
   
2. Locate and double-click the .exe file. (It will usually be in yourDownloads folder.)
   
3. A dialog box will appear. Follow the instructions to install the software.
   
4. The software will be installed. You can now open the application from the Start menu (Windows 7) or the Start Screen (Windows 8).
   

Tips for finding software

In our experience, the easiest way to find new software is to search the Web. For example, if you were looking for a way to edit some personal photos on your computer, you could run a Google search for free photo-editing software. If you're not exactly sure what kind of software you're looking for, try describing the tasks you want to complete. For example, if you wanted a way to create to-do lists and organize your appointments, you might search for something likefree calendar organizer software.

The Windows Store

If you're using Windows 8, you can download and install software from theWindows Store. The Windows Store is meant to simplify the process of locating and installing software from third-party developers—when you find an app in the Windows store, you won't have to do any extra work to install it.

Uninstalling Software from Your Windows PC

Uninstalling software from your Windows PC

If you find that you no longer use an application, you can uninstall the softwareto remove it from your computer. This is a good way to clear up space on your hard drive and keep your computer free of clutter.

1. Open the Control Panel.
   
2. Select Uninstall a program (in the Programs category).
   
3. Select the desired application, then click Uninstall.
   
4. Confirm the uninstallation.
   

That's it! The program will be removed from your computer.

Installing Software on Your Mac

Installing software on your Mac

Your computer allows you to do some really amazing things. Digital photo editing, sophisticated computer gaming, video streaming—all of these things are possible because of different types of software. Developers are always creating new software applications, which allow you to do even more with your computer.

Installing from a CD-ROM

From the mid-1990s through the late 2000s, the most common way to get new software was to purchase a CD-ROM. You could then insert the disc, and the computer would walk you through through the installation.

Now, almost all software has moved away from this model. In fact, Apple no longer sells computers that include a CD-ROM drive!

Installing software from the Web

Today, the most common way to get new software is to download it from the Internet. Applications like Microsoft Office and Adobe Photoshop can now be purchased and downloaded right to your computer. You can also install free software this way. For example, if you wanted to install the Google Chrome web browser, you could visit this page and click the Download button.

The installation file will usually be saved to your computer in the .dmg format. Pronounced dot d-m-g, this is the standard extension for installation files on Mac computers. You can follow the steps below to install an application from a .dmg file.

1. Locate and download a .dmg file.
   
2. Locate and select the .dmg file. (It will usually be in your Downloadsfolder.)
   
3. A dialog box will appear. Click and drag the icon to your Applicationsfolder.
   
4. The application is now installed. You can double-click the icon to open the program.
   
5. Eject the installation disc. To do this, simply drag it to the Trash Can on the dock.
   

Some applications will use the .pkg extension instead of .dmg—in this case, you can simply follow the instructions to install the software.

Tips for finding software

In our experience, the easiest way to find new software is to search the Web. For example, if you were looking for a way to edit some personal photos on your computer, you could run a Google search for free photo-editing software. If you're not exactly sure what kind of software you're looking for, try describing the tasks you want to complete. For example, if you wanted a way to create to-do lists and organize your appointments, you might search for something likefree calendar organizer software.

The Mac App Store

If you're using a Mac with OS X Snow Leopard or newer (version 10.6 and up), you can download and install software from the Mac App Store. The Mac App Store is meant to simplify the process of locating and installing software from third-party developers—when you find an app in the Mac App Store, you won't have to do any extra work to install it.

Uninstalling Software from Your Mac

Uninstalling software from your Mac

If you find that you no longer use an application, you can uninstall the softwareto remove it from your computer. This is a good way to clear up space on your hard drive and keep your computer free of clutter.

1. Open a new Finder window, then select Applications.
   
2. Locate the desired application, then click and drag it to the Trash Canon the Dock.
   
3. Empty the Trash Can.
   

That's it! The application will be removed from your computer.

There are some applications that can't be removed this way. To completely uninstall an application like this, you'll need to locate and delete its Library files. This can be a little complicated, so we'd recommend following these instructions from MacRumors.

How to Keep an Old Computer Running Smoothly

How to keep an old computer running smoothly

Being stuck with an old computer can be challenging. Unsupported operating systems are vulnerable to Internet threats, and the hardware of an older computer starts to face some limitations. However, there are a few things you can do to protect it and keep it running smoothly. 

Secure your computer

Older versions of Windows, like Windows XP, no longer receive security updates from Microsoft. This leaves them vulnerable to many Internet dangers. You can protect your system by running up-to-date antivirus, antimalware, and firewall programs. Learn more in our lesson on Protecting Your Computer from Internet Threats.

Using alternatives to Internet Explorer can also make your computer safer from Internet threats. Chrome and Firefox are popular choices for browsing.

If you're using Microsoft Outlook, you might want to consider switching to another email client like Thunderbird. Many Internet threats specifically target vulnerabilities in Outlook.

Consider upgrading your OS

One option for keeping your computer running smoothly and securely is upgrading to a newer OS, giving you access to current security updates and support. However, it will usually cost money, may require reformatting your hard drive, and might be confusing to use at first. Before upgrading, consider if it is worth these costs, and check to see if your computer is powerful enough to run the new OS.

Alternately, you could install a lighter, free OS like Linux. Learning how to use Linux might take longer if you're accustomed to Windows, but it has many advantages and usually runs well on older computers. See our Linux resourcesfor more information.

Maintain your computer

A few simple steps can extend the lifetime of your computer, keep your operating system running smoothly, and protect you from data loss. Think of these as good habits, like brushing your teeth every day or getting the oil changed in your car regularly.

• Shut down your computer at least a few times a week, or every day.
• Uninstall programs you no longer use.
• Delete large files you no longer need, especially media files like movies, music, and images.
• Disable programs from running on startup unless they are necessary.
• Use a maintenance tool like CCleaner.

Back up your files

Older computers are more likely to experience hardware failure. Preparing for this possibility is much easier than recovering data from a failed drive. Backing up your files will protect you from losing your data. The two most common ways of doing this are copying your data to an external drive and using an online backup service.

Disable Applications from Running on Startup

Disable applications from running on startup

You may not realize it, but your computer runs several applications as soon as it starts. While this is necessary for your computer to function, too many applications running on startup can slow down your computer. Among other ways to keep your computer running smoothly, you can disable applications from running on startup to improve its performance. 

Consider before disabling anything

Before you disable an application from starting, consider whether you should. You don't need to disable most applications, but disabling the ones you don't always need or ones that are demanding on your computer's resources can make a big difference. If you use the program every day or if it's necessary for the operation of your computer, you should leave it enabled on startup. You can do an Internet search for the name of a program if you aren't sure what it is or what it does.

Disable in a program's own settings

Some programs have a built-in setting to enable or disable them from running on startup. Each program is different, but it's usually in a settings or configuration menu. Many programs don't have a startup setting because most operating systems can automatically manage which programs run on startup.

Disable in Windows 8 and 10

In Windows 8 and 10, the Task Manager has a Startup tab to manage which applications run on startup. On most Windows computers, you can access the Task Manager by pressing Ctrl+Shift+Esc, then clicking the Startup tab. Select any program in the list and click the Disable button if you don't want it to run on startup.

Disable in Windows 7 and earlier

In Windows 7 and earlier, the process is a little more complicated. These settings are in the System Configuration utility, also known as msconfig.

1. Open the Start menu and locate the search box. Note: If you're using Windows XP, click Run on the right side of the Start menu.
2. In either the search box or the Run dialog, type msconfig and press Enter.
   

How to Set Up a New Printer

How to set up a new printer

Trying to get your new printer up and running? Here are the basic steps you'll follow to set up almost any printer.

1. Plug in the printer's power cable and make sure it's turned on.
   
2. Connect the included cable (usually a USB cable) from the printer to the computer. Note: The process will be different if you're using awireless printer; we'll talk more about that later on.
   
3. On your computer, locate the Printer settings. If you're using a Windows computer, you'll find these in the Control Panel. If you're using a Mac, you'll find them in System Preferences.
   
4. Look for the option to Add a printer, then follow the instructions that appear.
   
5. Now it's time to try printing something! For example, you could try printing this test page. After you click the link, select File > Print from your web browser's menu, or simply press Ctrl+P on your keyboard (orCommand+P if you're on a Mac).
6. A dialog box will appear. Locate and select the new printer from the list, then click Print.
   
7. The item will then be printed. But if it doesn't work, don't panic! You can try using some of the solutions to common problems below.

Solutions to common problems

• Problem: Nothing happens when I try to print. There are several reasons a printer might not work, even if everything's connected properly. First, you'll want to make sure you've put paper into thecorrect tray and there's no paper stuck inside the printer.
• Problem: The printer has paper and nothing's stuck, but it still won't print. If the solutions above don't work, try canceling the print job from the computer and trying again. Many printers also have a button you can use to restart the current job. If all else fails, try turning the printer off and on again to see if it fixes the problem.
• Problem: The printer works, but the text is very light and difficult to read. If this happens, it probably means your printer requires a new ink cartridge to keep working. The instruction manual included with the printer should note what type of cartridge you'll need to buy.

Advanced troubleshooting

If you're still having trouble, you can try to find help for your specific printer. We've collected a list of support pages for some of the most common printer brands below:

• Brother
• Canon
• Epson

Another idea would be to run a Google search describing your problem, including the brand and model number. In the example below, we're searching for canon MX920 not responding.

What about wireless printers?

The convenience of wireless printers has made them increasingly popular in recent years. Without the need to physically connect a printer to your computer, wireless printers make it easy to print from laptops, tablets, and even smartphones.