Windows 10 Bible

Chapter 28Installing and Upgrading Legacy Programs

IN THIS CHAPTER

1. Playing it safe with program installations
2. Updating versus upgrading
3. Installing programs from disks

Unlike documents, which you can freely copy to your hard disk and use on the spot, most new programs you acquire must be installed before you can use them. The installation process configures the software to work with your particular hardware and software. The process also creates an icon or program group on the Windows 10 Start menu so that you can start the new program as you would any other.

NOTE

If you're upgrading from Windows 7 or earlier, don't take for granted that upgrading to Windows 10 preserves all your legacy applications. Even Microsoft Office 2013 applications are at risk. Before you upgrade, make sure that you have your legacy software installation media and registration or license keys handy, and be prepared to reinstall.

You need to install a program only once, not each time you intend to use it. After you've installed a program from a disk, you can put the disk away for safekeeping. You need the original installation disk to reinstall the program only if you accidentally delete the program from your hard disk or if some sort of hard disk crash damages the program.

This chapter explores the common methods and issues you may experience when installing programs for Windows 10. Keep in mind that the installation process, although similar across different programs, can vary from one ...