Downloading and Installing Software Instructions

Getting Started

Before downloading software, here are some tips:

• When choosing software, be sure to select the version that matches your operating system (e.g., Windows '98, Windows '95, Windows 3.x, or Macintosh). Software created for one operating system will not always work on another.

• Make sure your computer meets any special requirements for running the software. Read any downloading and installation instructions provided.

• Create a folder on your computer to store files downloaded from the Internet. Name this folder C:\Download (or some other name you will remember). Saving all your downloaded files to a single folder makes it easier to keep track of them.

• Write down the name of the file you are downloading. You will need this filename when you go to install the software.

Downloading Software

Once you have found the software you want, click on the file's name. In Netscape, you will probably see a window like the one shown below. Click the "Save File" button to download the file to your computer. When prompted, save the file to your C:\Download folder.

.exe or .zip?

So you've downloaded a file that ends with .exe or .zip. What do these mean?

• Filenames ending in .exe are executable files (files that can perform an action). In most cases, double-clicking on the file will start the installation process.

• Filenames ending in .zip are "zipped" or compressed files. Before you can install your software you need to uncompress (or "unzip") the file with a program like WinZip (http://www.winzip.com). Once you have unzipped the file you downloaded, look for a file named install.exeor setup.exe. This is the file you will use to actually install the program on your computer.

Now that the software is downloaded, you have to install it on your computer so Windows recognizes it as a program.

1. Before starting the installation, close any programs you have open. This will help avoid conflicts with software that is already installed.

2. From the Start Menu, select "Run" (Windows 3.x users: from the Program Manager select File…Run)

3. Use the Browse button to move to the C:\Download folder. Remember, if you had to unzip the file, you are probably looking for a file named install.exe or setup.exe.

   You can also locate the file from within Windows Explorer (or the File Manager in Windows 3.x). Then, double-click on the file to start the installation process.

4. Once you have selected the file, the installation process will begin. The installation process will walk you through installing your software. For example, the setup will suggest a place where the software should be stored on your computer and ask you where it should create a shortcut (or program icon) for the program.

5. Once the installation is completed, restart your computer so all the changes can take effect.

Cleaning Up

Now that your software is installed, you'll want to remove the installation files from your C:\Download folder. Deleting these files helps conserve space on your computer.

The Master Internet Volunteer Program was developed by the University of Minnesota Extension Service and was adapted for use in North Dakota with permission. Copyright  © 2000  North Dakota State University. All rights reserved.

North Dakota State University Extension Service