How to Install Software in Windows Vista

Windows Vista allows you to install and run a variety of software programs. You can install these software programs from an installation disc, from the Internet or from a network. These multiple installation options are convenient because they allow you to choose the best way to install and run software programs.

Installing Software Using a CD or DVD

Step 1

Insert your software installation CD or DVD into the CD/DVD-ROM drive on your computer and wait for the installation wizard to launch automatically.

Step 2

Click the Windows Start menu and click "Computer" if the installation wizard does not launch automatically. Right-click the CD/DVD-ROM drive containing the installation disc and click "Auto-Run." If prompted, type your administrator password and click "OK" to launch the installation wizard.

Step 3

Follow the guided prompts on the installation wizard, as they vary with different software programs. If prompted, restart your computer to complete the installation.

Installing Software from the Internet

Step 1

Go to the website that has the link to the program you want to download to your computer. Click the download link. When prompted, click "Open" or "Run" if you want to install the program immediately. The installation wizard will launch. Follow the guided prompts on the installation wizard, as they vary with different software programs. If prompted, restart your computer to complete the installation.

Step 2

Click "Save" after clicking the software download link if you want to install the program later. This launches the file-saving dialog box. Select the location where you want to save the software installation file and click "Save."

Step 3

Double-click the software installation file from the location where you saved it and click "Run" to launch the installation wizard. Follow the guided prompts to complete the installation. If prompted, restart your computer.

Installing Software Using a Network

Step 1

Click the Windows Start menu and click "Control Panel."

Step 2

Click "Programs" and click "Get Programs." Select the software program you want to install and click "Install." If prompted, type your administrator password and click "OK" to launch the installation wizard.

Step 3

Follow the guided prompts on the installation wizard, as they vary with different software programs. If prompted, restart your computer to complete the installation.

References

• Microsoft Windows: Install a Program

About the Author

Kefa Olang has been writing articles online since April 2009. He has been published in the "Celebration of Young Poets" and has an associate degree in communication and media arts from Dutchess Community College, and a bachelor's degree in broadcasting and mass communication from the State University of New York, Oswego.

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