How to Safely Download and Install Software: Our 7 Top Tips

Downloading and experimenting with software is one of the best parts of owning a computer, instantly unlocking new features and potentially helping you improve your productivity.

But always exercise caution before clicking that alluring 'Download' button, because some software is designed to steal your personal information.

Below, we run through simple ways you can avoid malware-ridden software, whether you're using Windows or macOS.

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Each month, we feature one of the most popular questions answered by our Tech Support team.

Question of the month: how do I avoid downloading unsafe files?

'I’ve just downloaded software for editing my photos. It seems fine and is working fine, but it struck me - how do I know that it’s safe?'

Which? Tech Support member

1. Download from trusted sources

These platforms have rigorous security protocols, provide user reviews and include a permissions list – so you know what information the app will have access to. While using app stores isn’t completely foolproof, carefully reviewing user reviews and permissions can help determine an app's safety.

Unfortunately, not all software is available through app stores. Usually, it's best to download the app directly from the developer's website – this pretty much guarantees you have downloaded the intended program instead of malware. 

2. Is it the real deal?

Checking the developer's name and the digital signature of the installation file you’ve downloaded can help verify the authenticity of the software.

Windowsright-clickPropertiesDigital SignaturesSee also: .

3. Consult reviews

Our experts suggest checking user reviews on forums, app stores, or reputable sites to confirm the software's reliability.

But a word of warning – many online platforms hosting reviews are still inundated with fabricated or misleading customer feedback. Our research has shown that fake reviews, sometimes written by people in exchange for discounts or payment, make consumers more likely to choose poor-quality products.

If you’re unsure, the Which? Tech Support team can provide guidance on different software recommended for varying tasks.

4. Protect your data with antivirus software

Scan downloaded files with your antivirus package before opening them – this can help pick up any embedded malware in the software. If you’re not sure of the source or developer, this step is a must.

Most antivirus packages have real-time protection, so should block and quarantine a download containing malware before it’s been installed.

Check in with our guide to the  to see which software we recommend.

5. Skip the extras

Many free pieces of software come with unnecessary add-ons, like web browsers or bundled programs. These often contain annoying pop-ups or intrusive messages.

custom installationNews, deals and stuff the manuals don't tell you. .

6. Use snapshots to time travel

restore pointTime Machine

Ensure you have an up-to-date snapshot before you install any software, as this lets you undo any software issues that may occur with a new installation.

On Windows: Windows Key + SCreate a restore point ConfigureCreateOn macOS:System SettingsGeneral Time Machine.Add Backup DiskYou can also try uploading your important files to the cloud – see our advice on .

7. Confirm file integrity

When you download software from a developer's website, it often includes what’s known as a checksum. This is essentially a string of numbers and letters used to check whether data or a file has been altered during the download or storage process.

Verifying the checksum is an extra step that not everyone will need or want to do, but if you have the time, you can follow the steps below for an added layer of security.

For this example, we'll use includes a checksum on its site. You can check if the file is secure by doing this: Download VLCDisplay checksumWindows Key + Rcmd EnterDownload certutil -hashfile vlc--win64.exe SHA256Match the output hash with the one on the VLC website. If they match, the file is secure.

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Additional reporting by Tom Morgan.

source https://www.which.co.uk/news/article/how-to-safely-download-and-install-software-aG5rq7N6ImUb