Installing FS2, FS2_Open and mods

These three things have been a source of confusion to many people. I know I've answered hundreds if not thousands of questions on this subject so I finally decided to bite the bullet and write a single monolithic guide on how to do all three as simply as I can. The idea is to show you how to install with as little fuss as possible while limiting the problems you may face in the future.

Use the quick links or simply click next to get started.

Where can I get FS2?

How do I install FS2? I have the downloaded the retail version.
How do I install FS2? I have the retail CDs.
How do I install FS2? I have the Home of the Underdogs download.

I've got a previously installed copy of FS2 and I want to install FS2_Open.
I've just installed FS2 and I want to install FS2_Open.

I've just installed FS2_Open and I want to install a mod.
I've got mods on my FS2_Open install and I want to install another mod.
I want to install a mod that uses components of another mods.