Windows 7: Should I always uninstall software before upgrading it?

RoloDman · 11 Aug 2010

I noticed that I need to update both my Flash programs. Would it be best to uninstall the current version and then update, or can I just upgrade?

Lasy B · 11 Aug 2010

I'd uninstall before upgrading (Talking Flash and Java here).

richc46 · 11 Aug 2010

It is best to uninstall and even better to use this rather then the uninstall in control panel.
http://www.revouninstaller.com/

To esure and even better download, I would clean up any remnants with ccleaner, too. None of this is required, but it cannot hurt.

http://www.piriform.com/ccleaner

I just updated without any of the above, without problem. I gave you the ideal situation, but it is not required, only suggested.

Digerati · 11 Aug 2010

Always? No. But sometimes, yes. I rarely remove the old first, unless the update readme file advises it. The exception is drivers. I usually uninstall old drivers, reboot, then install new drivers.

Revouninstaller is a great tool, but frankly, the last time I needed it was years ago when changing AV programs. And I used it back then too to totally remove ATI drivers when I switched to a nVidia card.

swarfega · 11 Aug 2010

Always best to read the instructions. Might cause some conflicts if the new version is so different from the previous version. Generally though I just overwrite unless it specifically says to uninstall first.

RoloDman · 12 Aug 2010

Thanks everyone, solved

derekimo · 12 Aug 2010

Quote: Originally Posted by RoloDman

Thanks everyone, solved

You can mark it solved by clicking on the red triangle and write solved, the mods will mark it for you.

mitchell64 · 12 Aug 2010

Have a look at this post in regards to flash player;

Latest Version of Adobe Flash Player

There are links in it including flash removal tool