This is a follow-up to this article where it was mentioned Adobe just released Flash Player 10.2.
A 64-bit Windows experience sometimes isn’t the most pleasant thing because you periodically have to install things twice. Once for 32-bit, the other for 64-bit. With Flash Player, you must install it four times to be available in all your 32-bit and 64-bit browsers.
I’m not kidding:
"ActiveX" is the Internet Explorer version, and "Plugin" is for all your other browsers. From 32-bit Chrome to 64-bit Firefox, it covers all of them.
What to download, how to install, and post-install:
32-bit versions
Step 1. Go here: http://get.adobe.com/flashplayer/otherversions/
Step 2. From the first drop-down, select Windows 7/Vista/XP/2008/2003.
Step 3. From the second drop-down, select Flash Player 10.2 for Windows Internet Explorer and download, but don’t run.
Step 4. Repeat steps 1 and 2, then select Flash Player 10.2 for Windows – Other Browsers and download, but don’t run.
Step 5. Close all browsers.
Step 6. Run the "ax" file first, complete the install, then run the other file and complete the install.
64-bit versions
Step 1. Go here: http://labs.adobe.com/downloads/flashplayer10_square.html
Step 2. Click "Download active-x for 64-bit Windows – for Internet Explorer only", then "Download plug-in for 64-bit Windows – for all other browsers". This will be two separate files.
Step 3. Close all browsers.
Step 4. Run the ActiveX file first, then the other.
Post-install
If in your Add/Remove you have a "Adobe Download Manager" whereas you didn’t before and don’t want it, remove it. If you also accidentally downloaded any McAfee software you didn’t want, uninstall that as well.
Yes, this is all a pain in the ass, but it does cover all web browsers that use Flash on your computer.
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Thanks Rich. Now it makes sense why I frequently Flash nag screens to update when I thought I was already updated.
Technically you did update properly, but probably only for the 32-bit version(s). The blame can easily be pointed at Adobe for this one because the mix between 32-bit and 64-bit Flash is screwed up beyond belief due to the fact it has to be installed 4 times to cover everything. I’m also relatively sure the Adobe Download Manager (should you choose to keep it installed) still doesn’t cover 64-bit updates due to their Preview Release status. When 64-bit goes to official release, hopefully it will be included in the normal update cycle along with 32-bit.
I have Windows 7 Pro 64 bit OS but I occasionally need to use the Virtual Windows XP within 7. I use IE and Firefox in both. Do we need to open Virtual and duplicate this procedure inside there as well?
Yes, it’s technically a separate OS and requires separate installations/updates.