How to Install Fonts in Windows

The standard fonts that come with the Windows operating system are not enough for serious work that requires variety and elaborate design. Purchase and install fonts in Windows to improve the quality of your documents, Web pages or other printed material.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet access
• Computer

1. Purchase and upload your new fonts. When you download newly purchased fonts, they come as .ZIP files. You will need to “unzip” using zip software, such as WinRAR, FreeZip or WinZIP.

2. Open the Control Panel from the Start menu. If using Windows XP or Vista, you may find it easier to switch to classic view when viewing the control panel.

3. Open the Fonts folder by double-clicking the icon. Open the File menu at the top of your screen and select “Install New Font.” A drives list menu appears.

4. Open the folder from the drive on your computer that you put your new fonts in. Select the fonts you want to install from the folder.

5. Check the “Copy Fonts to Font Folder” box if you have not already done so. Click the “OK” button and the fonts will be installed and ready to use.

Tips & Warnings

• The above procedure can be used for all common types of fonts, such as True Type, Post Script and Type 1 fonts.
• To avoid confusion, install one format of a particular font. Having two different formats for a font can be a problem, especially when it comes time to send a document to the printer.
• If the Copy Fonts to Font Folder box is not checked when you install a new font from an external source, such as a CD or flash-drive, you will not be able to use those fonts unless the source is plugged in to your computer at all times.