How to Install Fonts in All Versions of Windows

This brief tutorial will show you how to install new fonts in all versions of Windows, from XP right through to Windows 10.

Installing Fonts in Windows XP

The steps to install new fonts in Windows XP is actually very simple, once you know how to do it. Open up Windows Explorer (just double-click My Computer). Navigate to the C:\WINDOWS\fonts folder.

File Explorer open to the fonts folder in Windows XP
click to enlarge

Copy and paste the font file (currently the most common font formats end with the extension .ttf or .otf) into the C:\WINDOWS\fonts folder. You’ll see a quick progress box pop up. That’s it – the font is now installed! Note: you may need to restart any applications you have open in order to use that font in that application.

the Windows XP Font installer progress meter

Installing Fonts in Windows Vista, Windows 7, 8 and 10

Installing fonts in newer versions of Windows couldn’t be much easier – simply right-click on the font file, and select Install.

install fonts in Windows Vista, 7, 8 and 10 right-click menu

A small Installing Fonts window may appear and then disappear quickly.

an installer panel

Depending on the version of Windows you’re using, a UAC (User Account Control) window may pop up asking you to confirm you want to install the font. Click Continue. You’ll need to restart any open applications in order to use the newly installed font in that app.

Notepad open with some text

Additional Resources

If you’d like an easy way to look at all of your fonts, check out this guide on how to quickly preview fonts in Windows. Or, create a font based on your own handwriting!


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2 thoughts on “How to Install Fonts in All Versions of Windows”

  1. Thank you, so easy! I’d been struggling for a long time with how to download fonts on Vista and now I see it’s so easy with just 2 clicks!

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