Adobe makes a number of software applications that are used to create websites online and being able to view these elements requires downloading their free readers. Two of the most common of these is Adobe Reader and Flash, and getting updates for these applications is easy and safe if you follow these simple instructions.

Adobe and the Web

Adobe Reader

Adobe Reader is one of the most widely used free software applications online, and if you use the internet at all, you are going to need a copy of this software in order to view and download many files you may find on the World Wide Web. Adobe Reader allows you to view files that have been saved in the PDF format which allows users to save files in a universal format.  This file can then be viewed on any computer, regardless of program the file was created in.

Adobe Flash

Adobe also makes another valuable piece of free software that allows you to view dynamic elements of websites made in their proprietary software, Flash. These elements are used in a number of sites to create introductions and other visually interesting features, and you will need their Flash Player in order to enjoy them.

Where to Download Safely

Making sure that you have the latest versions of these very useful pieces of software will allow you to access these widely used file formats, and making sure that you download this software from a reputable source online will keep your computer protected. The best way to ensure that you not only have the latest version of Adobe Reader and Flash Player, but that you are getting it from a reputable source is to go directly to the official Adobe website. You can find Adobe’s downloads at

http://www.adobe.com/downloads/

From here you will see a number of downloads that are available for all their products both free and purchased. Their free downloads are located on the right-hand side of the page. Just click on the link for the download you need or go directly to the download you want by following the links below.

Adobe Reader- http://get.adobe.com/reader/

Flash Player- http://get.adobe.com/flashplayer/

It is always a good idea to get downloads directly from the company that offers the product to make sure that you are getting the application that you want and that it free of bugs, spyware and other malicious types of software. It will keep your computer running quickly and efficiently.

Alternate Downloads

Most people don't have to worry about a flash update because your browser will prompt you for one when you visit a flash-based site, like Youtube.  For Adobe Reader, there's an equally easy way to check for updates.  Just open Adobe Reader and…

• Click on the HELP menu.
• Then select  CHECK FOR UPDATES
• This will prompt Reader to check the web for any newer versions.
  

What Versions of Reader and Flash do I have?

It's easy to check which versions of Flash and Reader you have before going after an update.

Reader

To see which version of Reader is currently installed, just open Adobe Reader itself.  Usually the version number is part of the title, for example Adobe Reader 8. If it's not, follow the same steps above and access the "about" file for your installation.

• Just click on the HELP menu in reader.
• There you can select  ABOUT ADOBE READER
• This little info block will tell you about your version and your last update.
  

Flash

The best way to see if there's a new Flash Update is to go to:  http://kb2.adobe.com/cps/155/tn_15507.html This is an Adobe service website.  It automatically checks the Flash version that's currently running in the browser that accesses it.  To check for different versions on different browsers, just go to the site in each one.