Topic: Software conflict?

[mistybear]

If I already have an old version of a software program installed and I obtain a new version of the same program, can I install the new version separately. The older version came with the computer and I don't want to interfere with any program that is already installed, unless I can update it. Also any newer programs I get that I find aren't what I really need I can then uninstall them without causing any problems the original software. If you get my drift? 

[Sandra]

Some programs will detect an earlier version during the installation and will upgrade it to the new version.
Others will either remove the earlier version or ask you to remove it before it will allow the new version to be installed.

Unfortunately, for your purposes, either method removes or modifies the earlier version.
The only way you could go back to the original after installing the newer version would be to use XPs restore function to go back to the date that you installed the newer version.

[Simon]

It depends on the software, MB.  Some will insist on removal of it's older version, some will install alongside, so you end up with two different versions of the same, and some will over-write the old version, and automatically update your files to the newer installation.  For example, if you had Works installed, you can install Office along side it, as I have both on mine.  If you have, say Office XP, and wanted to upgrade to Office 2003, I'm not certain, but I think you would have to uninstall Office XP first, as there's not really much point in running the two on the same computer, or it may just over-write the older version.

Ahh, Sandra, you beat me to it today! 

[Sandra]

Ahh, Sandra, you beat me to it today! 

Its the dogs fault Simon, Charlie decided he needed to go out before 10 am today 

[mistybear]

Thanks to both of you. 

I took the plunge and installed it, I did ask to uninstall the previous version, but as Sandra says, I can all ways restore it, plus it came with the CD.

I do you have one little problem with it, but it's not something that can be discussed here. 

[Simon]

Hopefully that little problem has now been sorted.   

[mistybear]

Yes, by magic the little problem has been fixed, thanks to my cyber space guardian angels.   

[Reno]

thanks to my cyber space guardian angels

Them???