Installation Help

Before you install

A few minutes of preparation prevents most installation problems. Work through this checklist first:

1. Sign in as an administrator. Security software needs administrator rights to install.
2. Remove any other antivirus. Keep Windows' built-in protection, but uninstall other third-party antivirus programs so they don't conflict.
3. Update Windows. Install pending updates and restart, so the installer runs on a stable system.
4. Free up disk space. Leave at least a few gigabytes free on the system drive.
5. Check your internet connection. Many installers download components during setup.
6. Have your details ready. If your product requires an activation code or account, keep it handy.

Installing step by step

1. Download from the official source. Always get the installer from the software maker's own website or a trusted store — never from a pop-up.
2. Close other programs. Save your work and close browsers and other applications.
3. Run the installer as administrator. Right-click the file and choose "Run as administrator" if prompted.
4. Follow the prompts. Accept the licence terms and choose a standard installation unless you have a reason not to.
5. Let it finish and restart. Allow the setup to complete fully, then restart if asked.
6. Run first updates and a scan. Once installed, let the program update its definitions and run an initial scan.

Fixing common installation errors

If an installation fails, freezes, or reports an error, these are the most effective steps in order:

1. Restart and try again. A simple reboot clears many temporary conflicts, especially right after a Windows update.
2. Re-download the installer. A corrupted or incomplete download is a frequent cause of failure.
3. Remove leftover security software. Fragments of a previously installed antivirus commonly block new installs. Use the previous vendor's official removal tool where available.
4. Temporarily pause conflicting apps. Close other security tools during installation, then re-enable your primary protection afterward.
5. Check date, time and region. An incorrect system clock can break secure connections the installer relies on.
6. Confirm system requirements. Very old hardware or an unsupported Windows version can prevent installation.

Confirming it installed correctly

• Open the program and check that real-time protection is switched on.
• Confirm the definitions updated to the latest available date.
• Run a quick scan to make sure scanning works.
• In Windows Security, confirm your antivirus is listed as active.