The term installation can refer to hardware or software.

Here we look at software installation which refers to the process of installing software onto a computer. There are numerous methods for achieving this, including through the use of diskettes, CD-ROMs, a network, or other types of data transfer.

Software typically needs to be installed before it can be used (executed). This is the process of transferring the data (the software's files) from one location, for example a data CD, onto the machine which will be using the software.

When installing software you may be asked to restart your machine before use. This is to enable the software to update your computer's configuration, for example, register any special filetypes/file extensions.

Once installed, the software's files (data) are normally stored locally, on either the hard disk or other main storage device.

Once the installation process is complete you will be able to access the new software from your operating system's program menu.

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