Type
Device or system
Installing safely3 guides
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How-to
How to install software safely on Windows, Mac and Android
A short routine for installing programs and apps without picking up malware or unwanted extras: where to get software, what to check, and what to watch for during setup.
Any device
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Explainer
EXE, MSI, DMG, PKG and APK files explained
What the file endings .exe, .msi, .dmg, .pkg and .apk mean, which system each belongs to, and how to open or install them safely.
Any device
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Explainer
32-bit, 64-bit or ARM: which version do I need?
Download pages often ask you to pick 32-bit, 64-bit or ARM. Here is what the choices mean and how to check which one your Windows PC or Mac needs.
Windows 11, Windows 10, Mac
Windows and Mac how-tos3 guides
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How-to
How to install a web browser on Windows or Mac
Install Chrome or Firefox from the maker's own website on Windows or Mac, then make it your default browser, with checks that you have the real download.
Windows 11, Windows 10, Mac
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How-to
How to uninstall programs on Windows and Mac
Remove programs you no longer use from Windows 11, Windows 10 or a Mac, and know what to try when Windows will not let you uninstall one.
Windows 11, Windows 10, Mac
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How-to
How to install software with winget and the Microsoft Store
Use the Microsoft Store or winget on the command line to install and update apps, rather than searching for download pages on the web.
Windows 11, Windows 10
When an install fails2 guides
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Fix
"Windows protected your PC": what the SmartScreen warning means
Learn why Windows shows the SmartScreen "Windows protected your PC" box, how to decide if the file is safe to run, and what to do next.
Windows 11, Windows 10
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Fix
App won't install or run: how to fix it
Work through safe fixes in order when a program will not install, will not open, or stops straight away on Windows 11 or Windows 10.
Windows 11, Windows 10
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