Why Can't I See Chinese Characters on My Screen?
Not every version of Windows comes with every language installed. For languages that use non-Roman characters, such as Chinese or Arabic, these characters will appears as small rectangles. You need to install language packs to see other characters.
Other People Are Reading
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Some Characters Display
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If you visit Chinese-language websites and see some of the text but not all, chances are you don't have the appropriate language pack installed. The characters that do display are images that can load without relying on Window's languages.
Installed Language Packs
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Windows 7 and Windows Vista has extensive built-in language packs, included to enhance the operating systems' appeal overseas. Both of these operating systems include the Chinese language pack. If your computer came preloaded, chances are these packs were installed, but if you've reinstalled Windows (or, though it's less likely, had an installation that didn't have language packs) and chosen not to include Chinese you can download and install the pack from the Microsoft website.
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Older Versions of Windows
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Windows XP and earlier versions didn't include the Chinese language pack by default. The language was on the CD but wasn't part of the installation. It can be added through the "Control Panel." Open "Regional and Language Options," then click the languages tab. Under "Supplemental Language Support" click "Install files for East Asian Languages." You will be asked to insert the XP CD to continue. Follow the onscreen prompts, then reboot to complete the installation.
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