Using Downloaded Files

Once a file or program has been successfully downloaded, it will need to be either opened or installed.

Opening Files

After virus-checking, most files may be opened by simply double-clicking them; their extension (the 2-4 letters or numbers following the 'dot' in the filename) will tell the computer what type of program should be used to open them. For example, a file with the extension .txt will open a simple text editor (such as Notepad) to view the contents, whereas a music file with the extension .mp3 will open a sound player, such as RealPlayer or iTunes. For more information on specific file extensions, check out this handy A-Z guide ...

Compressed Files

Some files may have been compressed in order to store many files into one, or to make a large file smaller so that it is quicker to download. Common extensions that denote a compressed file include .zip, .rar and .exe (for PC users) and .sea and .hqx (for Macs).

.exe and .sea files are self extracting archives; this means that no additional software is required to uncompress them. All the user needs to do is double-click on them in their file managing program; this will do one of three things: automatically run a setup program, expand the file into a larger file or expand it into several files.

.zip, .rar and .hqx files require other software to be installed before they can be decompressed or expanded. PC users can use WinZip or WinRAR (amongst other programs), whilst Mac users commonly use Stuffit Expander. Once this additional software is installed, users can uncompress files by clicking on them in their file managing software. The file will then decompress in the same way as a self extracting archive.

Installing Programs

Downloaded programs will usually include an installation file, often called setup.exe or install.exe which should be run to initiate the installation process. This can be done by double-clicking the file and then following the on-screen instructions that follow. There is also often a text file (or occasionally an .htm file to be read in your browser) that explains how to install the program. This is usually called "readme".

Once the program has been installed, the original installation files in the download directory can be deleted.