ICT Level 6 | Computer Software Installation Module: Software Installation & Configuration
ICT LEVEL 6
Computer Software Installation
Student Notes & Practical Guide
Field Details
Module Software Installation & Configuration
Level ICT Level 6 (National Qualifications Framework)
Unit Computer Hardware and Software Management
Purpose Understand how to install, configure, and manage software on
computer systems
Version 2024 Edition
1. Introduction to Computer Software
Software is a set of instructions that tells a computer what to do. Without software, a computer
is just a collection of electronic parts. This module teaches you how to properly install and
manage different types of software on a computer system.
1.1 Types of Software
There are three main categories of software you need to know:
Type What it does Examples
System Software Controls the hardware and provides Windows 11, Ubuntu Linux, macOS
a platform for other software to run Ventura
Application Software Programs used by people to Microsoft Office, Google Chrome,
complete specific tasks VLC Media Player
Utility Software Tools that help maintain and Antivirus programs, disk cleaners,
improve computer performance backup tools
1.2 Software Licensing
Every piece of software comes with a licence that explains how you are allowed to use it. You
must always follow the licence agreement.
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• Commercial Software: You pay a fee to use it (e.g., Microsoft Office, Adobe Photoshop)
• Freeware: Free to use but you cannot change the code (e.g., PDF Reader, Zoom)
• Open Source: Free to use and you can modify the code (e.g., VLC, LibreOffice)
• Shareware: Free for a trial period, then you must pay
• Proprietary Software: Owned by a company; the code is kept secret
Key Term: A software licence is a legal agreement between the software maker and the
user. Breaking the licence is against the law.
2. Before You Install Software
Good preparation prevents problems. Always complete these checks before starting an
installation.
2.1 System Requirements
Every software program needs a certain level of hardware to work properly. You must check the
system requirements before installing.
Common system requirements to check:
• Operating System (OS): Is the software for Windows, Linux, or macOS?
• Processor (CPU): What minimum processor speed is needed? (e.g., 1 GHz or higher)
• RAM (Memory): How much memory does the software need? (e.g., minimum 4 GB
RAM)
• Hard Disk Space: How much storage space is required? (e.g., 2 GB free space)
• Graphics Card: Does the software need a special graphics card?
• Internet Connection: Is an internet connection needed for activation?
How to Check Your Computer's Specifications (Windows)
1 Press the Windows key on your keyboard.
2 Type 'System Information' in the search bar and press Enter.
3 Look at the information shown: Processor, Installed RAM, and Operating System.
4 Compare this to the software's minimum requirements.
5 If your computer meets the requirements, you can proceed with installation.
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2.2 Backing Up Your Data
Important! Always back up your important files before installing new software. Installation
can sometimes cause problems that may affect your existing files.
Before installing, back up:
• Documents, photos, and personal files
• Browser bookmarks and saved passwords
• Settings and configuration files of existing programs
2.3 Checking for Existing Software
Sometimes a newer version of software may already be installed. Installing twice can cause
conflicts or errors.
To check installed programs on Windows:
1. Click the Start Menu and open Settings.
2. Click on 'Apps' then 'Installed Apps'.
3. Search for the software name in the list.
4. If it is already installed, decide whether to update it or remove it first.
2.4 Administrator Rights
To install most software, you need administrator (admin) rights on the computer. This is a
security measure to prevent unauthorised installations.
Note: If you do not have admin rights, ask your IT technician or supervisor to install the
software for you.
3. Sources of Software
Software can be obtained from several sources. It is important to always use safe and legal
sources.
3.1 Safe Sources
• Official Website: Download directly from the software developer's website (most
recommended)
• Microsoft Store / Apple App Store: Built-in stores with verified software
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• Ubuntu Software Centre / Package Manager: For Linux operating systems
• Company Network Share: Software provided by your organisation's IT department
3.2 Dangerous Sources to Avoid
Warning! Never download software from unofficial websites, torrent sites, or unknown email
attachments. These may contain viruses, spyware, or malware that can damage your
computer and steal your data.
3.3 Verifying a Download
After downloading software, you should verify that the file is safe and complete:
• Check the file size matches what the official website says
• Scan the downloaded file with antivirus software before opening it
• Check the checksum (MD5/SHA256) if provided by the developer
4. Installing Software on Windows
Windows is the most commonly used operating system in business environments. The steps
below apply to Windows 10 and Windows 11.
4.1 Installing from an Executable File (.exe)
Most Windows software comes as an .exe (executable) file. This is the most common
installation method.
1 Download the .exe file from the official website and save it to your Downloads folder.
2 Right-click the .exe file and select 'Run as Administrator'. This ensures the software
installs correctly.
3 A User Account Control (UAC) box may appear asking 'Do you want to allow this app
to make changes?' Click Yes to continue.
4 The installation wizard will open. Read each screen carefully before clicking Next.
5 Choose the installation type: Typical (recommended for beginners) or Custom (for
advanced users who want to choose specific settings).
6 Select the installation folder. The default folder (usually C:\Program Files) is
recommended unless you have a reason to change it.
7 Review the licence agreement carefully. Tick the box to agree and click Next or
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Install.
8 Wait for the installation to complete. Do not turn off the computer during this process.
9 Click Finish. Some software may ask you to restart the computer. Save all your work
before restarting.
Tip: During installation, watch for 'optional extras' that may be pre-ticked, such as browser
toolbars or additional programs you did not ask for. Untick these to keep your computer
clean.
4.2 Installing from a Compressed File (.zip)
Some software comes in a compressed (zipped) folder. You need to extract it first before
installing.
1 Locate the downloaded .zip file in your Downloads folder.
2 Right-click the .zip file and select 'Extract All...'
3 Choose a destination folder and click Extract.
4 Open the extracted folder and look for a [Link] or [Link] file.
5 Double-click the setup file and follow the on-screen instructions as described in
Section 4.1.
4.3 Installing from a Disk Image (.iso)
Some software is distributed as a disk image (.iso file), which is a virtual copy of a DVD or CD.
1 Right-click the .iso file.
2 Select 'Mount'. Windows will create a virtual drive and open it automatically.
3 Inside the mounted drive, find and double-click the setup or autorun file.
4 Follow the installation wizard as normal.
5 After installation, right-click the virtual drive in File Explorer and select 'Eject' to
remove it.
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5. Installing Software on Linux (Ubuntu)
Linux uses a different method for installing software called a package manager. Ubuntu Linux is
commonly used in schools and businesses.
5.1 Using the Terminal (Command Line)
The terminal is a text-based interface for controlling the computer. It is powerful and fast, but
you must type commands correctly.
Basic installation command:
sudo apt install [software-name]
Example - Installing VLC Media Player:
1 Open the Terminal by pressing Ctrl + Alt + T on your keyboard.
2 Type: sudo apt update and press Enter. This updates the list of available software.
3 When prompted, type your password and press Enter. (Note: the password will not
show as you type - this is normal.)
4 Type: sudo apt install vlc and press Enter.
5 The system will show you how much disk space will be used and ask you to confirm.
Type Y and press Enter.
6 Wait for the download and installation to finish. You will see a message when it is
complete.
7 The software is now installed and can be found in your Applications menu.
5.2 Using Ubuntu Software Centre (Graphical Method)
If you prefer not to use the terminal, you can install software using the graphical software centre,
similar to an app store.
1 Click on the Ubuntu Software icon in the taskbar (it looks like a shopping bag).
2 Use the search bar to find the software you want to install.
3 Click on the software name to see more details and reviews.
4 Click the green Install button.
5 Enter your password if asked and click Authenticate.
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6 Wait for the installation to complete. The button will change to say 'Remove' when
done.
7 Find the newly installed software in your Applications menu.
6. Configuring Software After Installation
Installing software is only the first step. You must also configure it correctly so it works for your
needs and is secure.
6.1 First-Time Setup
When you open new software for the first time, it may ask you to complete a setup wizard.
Common configuration tasks include:
• Setting the language and region
• Creating or signing in to a user account
• Choosing default settings such as file save locations
• Setting privacy and sharing preferences
• Connecting to a network or server if needed
6.2 Updating Software
Software companies release updates to fix bugs, improve performance, and fix security
problems. Always keep your software up to date.
Important! Outdated software can have security holes that hackers can use to attack your
computer. Always install security updates as soon as they are available.
How to update software:
• Windows Update: Settings > Windows Update > Check for Updates
• Individual software: Look for a 'Check for Updates' option in the Help menu
• Linux (Ubuntu): Open terminal and type: sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade
6.3 Setting User Permissions
On a shared computer, you may need to set who can use the software and what they are
allowed to do. This is called access control.
• Administrator: Full control - can install, change settings, and delete software
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• Standard User: Can use the software but cannot change system settings
• Guest: Very limited access - usually cannot save files or change anything
7. Uninstalling Software
When you no longer need a program, you should remove it properly. Simply deleting the
program folder is not enough and can leave unwanted files behind.
7.1 Uninstalling on Windows
1 Click the Start Menu and open Settings.
2 Click on 'Apps' then 'Installed Apps'.
3 Find the software you want to remove by scrolling or searching.
4 Click on the software name, then click Uninstall.
5 Follow the on-screen instructions. Some software will ask for confirmation.
6 Restart the computer if prompted.
7 Check the program folder (usually in C:\Program Files) to see if any leftover files
remain and delete them manually if needed.
7.2 Uninstalling on Linux (Ubuntu)
Using the terminal:
sudo apt remove [software-name]
To remove the software and all its configuration files:
sudo apt purge [software-name]
8. Troubleshooting Common Installation Problems
Sometimes software does not install correctly. Below are the most common problems and how
to fix them.
Problem Possible Cause Solution
Installation freezes or stops Not enough disk space or Free up disk space, close other
RAM programs, then try again
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'Access Denied' error You do not have admin rights Right-click installer and select 'Run
as Administrator'
'Incompatible with this version Software is too old or too new Download the correct version for
of Windows' error for your OS your operating system
Software installed but will not Missing supporting files (.NET, Install the required support files
open Visual C++) listed in the error message
Installation says the software Previous version was not fully Uninstall the old version first, then
is already installed removed install the new one
Antivirus blocks the installation File may be suspicious or Verify the file is from the official
infected source; if safe, temporarily disable
antivirus
9. Health, Safety, and Legal Considerations
9.1 Legal and Ethical Issues
• Never copy and share commercial software without permission. This is called software
piracy and is illegal.
• Always read the licence agreement before installing software.
• Do not use software that has been hacked or had its licence bypassed (cracked
software).
• Report any unlicensed software you find in your workplace to your supervisor.
9.2 Security Best Practices
• Only download software from official, trusted websites.
• Always scan downloaded files with antivirus software before installing.
• Keep all installed software updated to the latest version.
• Use strong passwords for software accounts.
• Never install software on a work computer without permission from the IT department.
10. Assessment Activities
Activity 1: Practical Installation Task
Your assessor will ask you to install a piece of software on a computer. You must:
5. Check the system requirements and confirm the computer is suitable.
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6. Locate and download the software from a safe, official source.
7. Perform the installation correctly, making appropriate choices during the wizard.
8. Verify the software works correctly after installation.
9. Document each step you took with brief notes or screenshots.
Activity 2: Short Written Questions
Answer the following questions in full sentences:
10. What is the difference between system software and application software? Give one
example of each.
11. List three things you should check before installing new software on a computer.
12. What does 'running as administrator' mean and why is it sometimes necessary?
13. Why should you never download software from unofficial websites?
14. Describe two ways to keep installed software secure after installation.
Activity 3: Troubleshooting Scenario
A colleague tells you: 'I tried to install a graphics program but I got an error saying there is not
enough disk space, even though I thought I had plenty.' Explain step by step how you would
help them solve this problem.
11. Key Terms Glossary
Term Meaning
Administrator A user with full control over a computer system, including the ability to
install software
Antivirus Software that protects a computer by detecting and removing viruses
and malware
Checksum A unique code used to verify that a downloaded file has not been
changed or damaged
Driver Software that allows the operating system to communicate with a
hardware device
Executable (.exe) A file type that runs a program when you double-click it
Freeware Software that is free to download and use, but the source code cannot
be changed
Installation Wizard A step-by-step guide that helps you install software correctly
Licence Agreement A legal document that explains the rules for how software can be used
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Malware Harmful software designed to damage or gain unauthorised access to
a computer
Open Source Software whose source code is freely available for anyone to view and
modify
Operating System (OS) The main software that manages all hardware and other software on a
computer
Package Manager A tool used in Linux to install, update, and remove software
automatically
RAM Random Access Memory - temporary memory that a computer uses to
run programs
Software Piracy The illegal copying or sharing of software without permission
System Requirements The minimum hardware and software specifications needed to run a
program
Uninstall The process of properly removing software from a computer
Update / Patch A small piece of software released to fix bugs or improve existing
software
UAC User Account Control - a Windows security feature that asks for
permission before making system changes
End of Notes | ICT Level 6 | Computer Software Installation
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