Install may refer to any of the following:

  1. When referring to computer hardware, install describes physically connecting a component to a computer. For general hardware components, like RAM or peripherals, it is possible for anyone, including the end-user, to install hardware. However, more intricate parts (e.g., an IC) requiring soldering or special equipment need a technician or engineer to install.

  2. With computer software, install, installation, or install.exe is creating, extracting, and moving all the necessary files to run a computer program. An install is started by running the install or setup file on a disc or downloading a program and running the install file.

  • How to install computer hardware.
  • How to set up a new computer.
  • Computer hardware help and support.

Once all files are installed on the computer, a program runs without a disc or downloaded file.

What is a custom and express install?

You may be prompted to do a “custom install” or “express install” when installing a program. An express install is an install that happens with little or no interaction required from the user. Use this option if you require no changes to the settings and trust the developer. A custom install is done if you have special requirements, such as installing the program on a different drive. Doing a custom install is also a good idea if you’re unfamiliar with the developer and want to make sure it’s not installing bloatware or changing computer settings.

If you no longer want the computer program or need more disk space, it can be uninstalled.

Add-on, APT, Clean install, Connection, Installation program, Installer, Operating system terms, Progress indicator, Reinstall, RPM, Setup, Software terms, Uninstall

We recommend always using the custom install option since it’s not much slower than an express install, and it makes sure it’s installed how you want it to be installed.

  • How to install software.
  • How to run a computer software program.
  • How to tell when Windows was installed on a computer.
  • Software help and support.