Unit 220: Comprehensive Software Installation

1. Introduction to Computer Software Installation

• Importance of installing software correctly
• Types of software installations
  • Typical/Standard installation
  • Custom/Advanced installation
  • Silent/Unattended installation
• Common installation processes and workflows

2. System Requirements for Software Installation

• Hardware specifications
  • CPU, RAM, graphics requirements
• Operating system compatibility
  • Supported OS versions and editions
• Available storage space
• Additional software dependencies (e.g., .NET frameworks, runtime libraries)

3. Pre-Installation Preparation

• Creating system backups and restore points
• Disabling antivirus and firewall software temporarily
• Ensuring stable internet connectivity
• Verifying user permissions and administrative rights
• Closing conflicting applications prior to installation

4. Installation Methods

• Manual installation from physical media (CD/DVD)
  • Using installation wizards
• Downloading software from the internet
  • Verifying download integrity (checksums, digital signatures)
• Using package managers
  • Windows (e.g., Chocolatey, Winget)
  • macOS (e.g., Homebrew)
  • Linux (e.g., APT, YUM, Pacman)
• Command-line vs GUI based installations

5. Troubleshooting Installation Issues

• Identifying compatibility conflicts
• Common installation errors and their causes
  • Insufficient permissions
  • Missing dependencies
  • Corrupted installation files
• Troubleshooting strategies
  • Reviewing installation logs
  • Using system event viewer
  • Running installers in compatibility mode
  • Seeking vendor support and resources

6. Software Updates and Patch Management

• Importance of keeping software updated
• Types of updates
  • Security patches
  • Feature updates
  • Bug fixes
• Update delivery methods
  • Automatic updates
  • Manual updates
• Best practices for patch management
  • Testing updates before deployment
  • Scheduling and documenting updates

7. Uninstalling Software

• Using built-in uninstaller tools
  • Control Panel, Settings app, or equivalent
• Third-party uninstaller software
• Cleaning leftover files and registry entries
• Verifying complete removal and system stability

8. Software Licensing and Activation

• Overview of software licensing models
  • Proprietary, open-source, subscription, perpetual
• Activation methods
  • Product keys
  • Online activation
  • Hardware-based activation
• Importance of complying with licensing agreements
• Managing licenses and renewals