Last updated on June 3rd, 2025 at 01:44 pm
Keeping your flight simulator up to date is key for smooth flying, exploring new features, and making sure your add-ons keep working as they should. Installing new flight sim software or updating an existing one can feel overwhelming, especially with all the versions, stores, and compatibility issues. Here’s a guide for getting set up, skipping drama, and enjoying your simulator experience to the fullest.
Checking System Requirements Before You Start
Before installing a new flight sim or an update, I always double-check the system requirements. Flight sim software is demanding, so you’ll want a solid, modern gaming PC. Pay attention to your processor, graphics card, RAM, disk space, and your operating system version. Running flight sim software on a system that can’t keep up often leads to crashes, stuttering, or features that just won’t work. Not sure if your PC’s ready? Try tools like Can You RUN It or check your specs using Windows’ built-in system info.. Remember, future-proofing your rig ensures you won’t be left behind when updates arrive or new sims get released.
Picking the Right Edition or Version
Flight simulators often offer several editions: Standard, Deluxe, Premium, or bundles packed with extra aircraft and scenery. Each tier typically gives you access to more planes, higher-detail airports, or additional features. Make sure you select the edition that matches your goals. Interested in flying complex airliners or landing at the biggest airports? A higher edition offers more content. But for budget build or if you’re just starting, the standard version will cover all basic flying needs. Take a few minutes and list out the content you care about most—that way, you get the most bang for your buck and don’t buy features you won’t use.
Downloading from Official Sources Only
I always advise grabbing flight sim installers or updates from trusted sources like the Microsoft Store, Steam, Laminar Research’s official site for X-Plane, or directly from other legitimate developers. Getting files from random sites can mean outdated software or, worse, malware. Using the official stores means easier updates, support, and peace of mind. For boxed physical copies, read reviews and double-check that the reseller is trusted.
Why SSD Installation Makes a Difference
Installing your sim on a solidstate drive (SSD) instead of a traditional hard drive results in much faster loading times and smoother streaming of scenery. I personally noticed a big difference switching Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 from an old HDD to an SSD. Waiting times went from painful minutes down to just seconds. For best performance, install both the main sim software and large add-ons onto your SSD.
How Updates Work for Popular Sims
Major simulators handle updates in different ways:
- MSFS (Microsoft Flight Simulator): Updates generally arrive through the main launcher, Microsoft Store, or Steam. There’s often an initial launcher update and then another update within the sim.
- X-Plane: Updates are available through Laminar Research or the Steam client. Use X-Plane’s built-in updater for both small patches and big upgrades.
- Prepar3D: You usually download new installers for updates. Sometimes, just the client or content needs updating, which can save time.
Always read the official release notes. Sometimes a new version affects how add-ons work or where your settings live. If you use airliners, study any included documentation for new features or changed controls.
Backing Up AddOns and Settings First
Before installing big updates or a brand new sim, I always back up my settings, aircraft, scenery, and anything I’ve tweaked. Most simulators let you export your control mappings, camera views, and settings. In Windows, just duplicate those key folders somewhere safe. If something breaks during an update, you can quickly restore your setup and avoid losing precious customizations.
ThirdParty AddOn Compatibility
If you’re running payware or freeware add-ons (scenery, aircraft, utilities, or plugins), always check the developer’s website or forum first to see if they work with the new sim version. Some updates—especially core sim updates—can break thirdparty content. When in doubt, wait until compatibility gets confirmed before updating. I keep a simple spreadsheet or note on my PC tracking which add-ons I own and which ones might need an update; this step can save tons of troubleshooting later.
Clearing the Rolling Cache (Mainly for MSFS Users)
If you’re an MSFS user, the rolling cache stores streamed scenery data, which can get corrupted after an update. I clear the rolling cache in the sim settings after big updates or when I notice graphical glitches. This helps the simulator download fresh scenery and textures, resulting in better visuals and fewer bugs.
Step By Step: Installing or Updating Your Flight Sim
- Download the Installer or Update from the official source or your account page.
- Run the Setup as Administrator (right-click, select “Run as Administrator” in Windows).
- Pick Your Install Directory. Use an SSD if possible, and keep a dedicated folder for each version.
- Follow the OnScreen Prompts, paying attention to any add-on or extra features.
- Let the process finish fully—don’t restart your computer or close the installer early.
- Reboot Your PC after the installation—even if not prompted. This prevents odd driver or simulator issues from cropping up.
- Test Launch the simulator and check menus, control settings, and graphics options before moving on.
Fixing Common Installation and Update Issues
- Stuck or Failing Downloads: Try pausing and resuming, restart your PC, or clear the simulator cache. Antivirus software or firewalls sometimes block downloads; check those if repeated issues pop up.
- Missing Files or Content: Most simulators have built-in verification or repair tools. On Steam or Microsoft Store, you can verify installation integrity—a quick way to fix missing or broken files.
- Crash to Desktop (CTDs) After Updating: Temporarily move your Community, AddOn, or Custom folders, then test. If it works, slowly restore content to pinpoint problem add-ons.
- Stuck at Loading Screen: Make sure your device drivers, Windows updates, DirectX, and simulator-specific runtime libraries are all current. This usually clears up weird crashes right after a patch.
Every flight sim community has folks who’ve handled these hiccups before—search the forums or Discord groups if you’re stuck. People often post walkthroughs and quick fixes for exactly these scenarios.
Staying Informed With Forums and Communities
I always keep an eye on official forums, Discord channels, and subreddit threads for breaking news about patches, bug fixes, and tips. These communities are full of veteran users who share real-world feedback on updates, highlight which add-ons don’t work, and reveal new features you might otherwise miss. If something goes wrong with your install or update, someone probably has the answer posted already.
Quick Tips and Answers
Question: My antivirus flags the installer or update. What should I do?
Answer: Confirm you downloaded the official file from a verified source. Temporarily disable antivirus during install if you trust the file, but always scan before running it to be safe.
Question: Should I uninstall the old simulator version before a major update?
Answer: Not usually. Most new installers handle previous versions, but for huge updates (like MSFS Sim Updates or X-Plane major releases), check the official instructions. If storage is tight, back up and do a clean install for best results.
Question: How often should I back up my settings and add-ons?
Answer: I back up before every major update (usually once a month), and after installing several new add-ons. Regular backups help avoid surprises and make restoring your setup easy if things go wrong.
RealWorld Reasons to Stay Current
Running the newest version of your flight simulator gets you fresh scenery, updated aircraft, faster bug fixes, and a smoother online experience. For those flying on live networks like VATSIM or IVAO, staying up to date avoids mismatches and annoying connection glitches. Thirdparty content developers usually focus on supporting the latest sim version, so updating keeps your options open and troubles minimal.
- Improved Graphics: Updates add higher resolution textures and advanced lighting engines.
- Better Stability: Frequent bug fixes lead to fewer crashes and smoother gameplay.
- New Features: Fresh areas, aircraft, and even new weather or ATC systems come with updates.
- Online Compatibility: Multiplayer works best when everyone uses the same simulator version.
Setting up or updating your flight sim is far less stressful when you know these steps and what to look out for. From checking your PC specs and backing up add-ons, to getting involved with the community, each step helps you enjoy a smoother, more reliable flight experience. Happy flying and clear skies ahead!
✈️ Ready for takeoff? If you found this guide helpful, check out Building Confidence: Your First Virtual Takeoff And Landing or explore must-have add-ons for realism to upgrade your flying experience.