How to install a computer program

You install a computer program so that you can do new things with those programs – things you can’t do with the programs you already have. You can install a computer program to add new capabilities to your computer, such as creating greeting cards or drafting legal documents. Some programs are free. Others cost money. Software designed for professional work can cost hundreds of dollars.
If you are a Windows 10 user, see the article about installing software on your Windows 10 desktop.

To install software from a CD or DVD:
1. Insert the software disc into your computer’s disc drive or tray, with the label facing up (or if your computer has a vertical disc slot instead, insert the disc with the label side facing left).

2. Click the option to run the installation or setup.
User Account Control may ask you if you really want to run this program. (Windows 7 tries to prevent you from inadvertently installing the software by asking for confirmation.)
If nothing happens when you insert the disc, choose Start → Computer to open the Computer window; Double-click the DVD or CD drive icon; Then double-click on a program called Setup or Install.
3. If the installer offers to choose a language, choose your language; Likewise, agree to the End User License Agreement, if requested.
Many installers require you to agree to an End User License Agreement (EULA). You can read the EULA or not, but you cannot install without agreeing to its terms.
4. If the installer offers express or custom installation options, select the Express option to allow the installer to set up the program without further input from you.
The “Custom” or “Advanced” option allows you to specify where to install software, and possibly select which parts of the software to install. Some installers provide other options for installing documentation and other software or for registering the software.

5. While the installer continues to run and display dialogs, click the Next or Continue button.
You go to the next dialog each time you click.
6. Click the Finish or Close button in the last step of the installer to complete the process.
In a few cases, Setup may ask you to restart Windows 7. In that case, you don’t have to restart right away, but you won’t be able to use the new program until you restart.
The new program may automatically appear at the bottom of the first screen of the Start menu. Also look under “All Programs”. Recently installed programs are highlighted in color. Some installers add a program icon to the desktop.
Many programs try to connect to the Internet for updates during installation or when the installed program is running. The first time you run a program, you may be asked if you want to register the program or configure some aspect of the program. Use the default (default) responses, if you’re not sure.