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2.1.10. Install applications according to requirements. (Obj. 1.10)

šŸ’” First Principle: Before installing any application, you must verify that the system meets all hardware, software, and compatibility requirements.

Installing an application might seem as simple as double-clicking an installer, but a professional technician knows that preparation is key to a successful and stable deployment. Every piece of software is designed to run within a specific set of parameters, known as system requirements. Ignoring these is a recipe for poor performance, crashes, or complete installation failure. Before you begin, you must always check the software vendor's official documentation for these requirements.

The key requirements to verify are:

  • Operating System Compatibility: Is the application designed for the OS you're using? Check the version (e.g., Windows 10, Windows 11, macOS Monterey) and the architecture. A 64-bit application cannot be installed on a 32-bit OS. A 64-bit OS, however, can run both 32-bit and 64-bit applications.
  • Hardware Specifications:
    • CPU: Does the processor meet the minimum speed and core count?
    • RAM: Is there enough physical memory? This is one of the most common bottlenecks.
    • Storage Space: Is there enough free space on the hard drive or SSD for the application and its data?
    • Graphics: Does the application, especially for design or gaming, require a dedicated graphics card with a certain amount of VRAM?
  • Software Dependencies: Does the application require other software to be installed first, such as a specific .NET Framework version or a Java Runtime Environment?

Beyond the technical specs, you must also consider the impact of the installation. Will the application consume a large amount of network bandwidth? Is it approved for use under the company's Acceptable Use Policy (AUP)? Does the company have a valid license for it, or is it open-source? Performing this due diligence prevents technical problems and ensures compliance with company policy.

Technician's Action Plan: Scenario: A junior architect in your firm wants to install a new, resource-intensive 3D modeling application called "Arch-e-Render" on their workstation. You are tasked with performing the installation.

  1. Consult the Documentation: Before touching the user's machine, go to the Arch-e-Render developer's website and find the system requirements page.
  2. Compare Specs: The website lists the recommended (not just minimum) requirements as:
    • OS: Windows 10/11 64-bit
    • CPU: 8-core, 3.0 GHz or higher
    • RAM: 32 GB
    • Graphics: NVIDIA RTX 3060 or better with 8 GB VRAM
    • Storage: 50 GB free SSD space
  3. Audit the User's Workstation: Go to the user's PC. Use System Information (msinfo32.exe) or Task Manager's Performance tab to check its specifications. You find it has a 6-core CPU, 16 GB of RAM, and an older graphics card with 4 GB of VRAM.
  4. Communicate the Discrepancy: Report your findings to the user and their manager. Explain that while the application might install, the workstation is significantly below the recommended specs for RAM and graphics power. Clearly state that this will likely result in very slow performance, long rendering times, and potential crashes, which will negatively impact the user's productivity.
  5. Propose a Solution: Recommend a hardware upgrade for the workstation, specifically increasing the RAM to 32 GB and installing a modern, supported graphics card. Explain that this investment is necessary to allow the expensive software to run effectively and provide a return on investment. Do not proceed with the installation on the under-specced machine without approval and acknowledgement of the expected poor performance.

Reflection Question: Why is it crucial to check the recommended system requirements, not just the minimum, before installing a resource-intensive application?