Windows Live Essentials system requirements

This version of Windows Live Essentials requires the following:


  • Operating system: Windows XP with Service Pack 2 (32-bit edition only), or Windows Vista (32-bit or 64-bit editions), or Windows 7 (32-bit or 64-bit editions), or Windows Server 2008.


    Note

    Note

    • Windows Live Movie Maker and the slide show feature of Windows Live Photo Gallery aren't supported on Windows XP.

  • Processor: 1 GHz or higher for Windows 7 or Windows Vista; 800 MHz or higher for Windows XP.

  • Memory: 512 MB of RAM for Windows 7 or Windows Vista; 128 MB (256 MB or more recommended) for Windows XP.

  • Resolution: Minimum 1024 x 768

  • Internet connection: Internet functionality requires dial-up or broadband Internet access (provided separately). Local or long-distance charges may apply.

  • Browser: Windows Live Toolbar requires Internet Explorer 6, Internet Explorer 7, or Internet Explorer 8.

  • Graphics or video card: Windows Live Movie Maker requires a video card that supports DirectX 9 or higher, and Shader Model 2 or higher.


View detailed release notes


Additional requirements

The following components are needed for certain Windows Live programs and may also be installed for you if they're not found on your computer.


  • For Writer: Microsoft .NET Framework 2.0 or higher.*

  • For Photo Gallery: SQL 2005 Compact Edition and Windows Imaging Codecs.*

  • For Photo Gallery and Movie Maker: Some components of DirectX 9.


*Not required when installing on Windows 7 or Windows Vista.


Note

Note

  • To install or uninstall Windows Live software, you must be logged on to the computer using an administrator account.