ARCHIVED: In Windows, how do I install a downloaded screen saver?

Note: Be careful to download screen savers and other files only from trustworthy sites, and consider scanning them with an antivirus program such as Symantec/Norton AntiVirus before installing them. For more information, see Using Symantec/Norton AntiVirus Corporate Edition, how do I immediately scan a file, folder, or drive for viruses?

When you transfer a screen saver file from the web (i.e., download it), you will be prompted for a location in which to save the file. Make a note of this location and the name of the file.

To install the downloaded screen saver in Windows:

1. Open Windows Explorer. For instructions on how to do this, see About Windows Explorer
   
   
2. Locate the file you downloaded and double-click it.
   
   
3. The installation program for the screen saver will run. When prompted for a location in which to install the program, enter the correct path below for your operating system:
   
   
   • Windows 2000 and XP:  c:\winnt\system32
   • Windows NT:  c:\winnt\system
   • Windows 95, 98, and Me:  c:\windows\system
   
   
4. Enter any other information the program requests, until the installation is complete.

If you are asked to restart your computer, do so. You can now use this screen saver as you would any other Windows screen saver. To do this:

1. Right-click a blank area of the desktop and, from the menu, choose Properties.
   
   
2. The Display Properties window will appear. Click the Screen Saver tab.
   
   
3. From the drop-down menu under "Screen Saver", you should be able to select the screen saver you just downloaded.

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