How to Install Downloads on a PC

Install a downloaded program to start using it.

Personal computers sometimes ship with useful programs already in place on the PC's hard drive, but downloading programs from the Internet helps to give users full control over the applications they want to run. The number and variety of programs on the Web are almost limitless. Whether you want to send an email, listen to music, watch a video or figure out your taxes, you can find a program to download on the Internet to help make the task easier -- often for free. Of course, downloading is only the first action to take. You'll also need to install the download on your PC to actually use the software.

Instructions

1. Log in to an account with Administrator privileges.

2. Launch your Web browser. Click on the program you'd like to download, then select the "Save" option and save the program to your hard drive. Allow the program to download completely.

3. Navigate to the download's save location. Double-click on the saved file to start the installation process. An Installation Wizard pops up.

4. Complete any required information and follow all directions offered by the Installation Wizard -- the exact process varies from program to program. Typically, you'll need to agree to some terms of use, select a location to install the program, and decide whether you want to create Start menu and desktop shortcuts for the new program.

5. Click "Finish" when prompted to complete the installation. You may need to reboot your computer.

Tips & Warnings

• Downloads can contain malicious software, such as viruses and spyware. Scan all newly downloaded programs with antivirus software before installing the application.

References

• Windows: Install a Program