How to Setup IronOCR using the Windows Installer
IronOCR is a powerful .NET library for Optical Character Recognition (OCR), enabling developers to extract text from images, scanned PDFs, and more — all within C# or VB.NET applications. While NuGet is the most popular way to install IronOCR, we also offer a Windows Installer for environments that prefer an offline or GUI-based setup.
Download the IronOCR Windows Installer
To get started, download the latest version of the IronOCR Installer:
Once downloaded, extract the ZIP archive and run the IronOCR Installer.exe file.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Launch the Installer: Double-click the executable file. Carefully read through the End User License Agreement. To proceed, select the checkbox indicating your agreement, then click
Next.
Choose Installation Folder: You can install IronOCR to the default directory or choose a custom location. After making your selection click
Nextto continue.
Select Start Menu Folder: Here you can choose whether to create a program shortcut. You can either browse and select a shortcut location or elect not to create a Start Menu folder.
- Install the Program: Finally, click
Installto install IronOCR to the designated location on your computer.
Modify Environment Variables After Installation
In most cases, the IronOCR Windows Installer will automatically set up all necessary environment variables. However, if you encounter issues (e.g., integration problems with Visual Studio or system access to the IronOCR install directory), you may need to manually set the IRONOCR_INSTALL_DIR environment variable.
Modify Environment Variables in Windows 11
Here’s how to manually set the environment variable on Windows 11:
- Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog. Type sysdm.cpl and press Enter.
- In the System Properties window, navigate to the Advanced tab, then click Environment Variables.
- In the Environment Variables dialog, you can add or edit variables under:
- User variables (just for your Windows user account)
- System variables (available to all users)
- Click New to create a new variable (or select Edit to modify an existing one).
- Set the following values:
- Variable Name:
IRONOCR_INSTALL_DIR - Variable Value:
C:\Program Files (x86)\IronSoftware\IronOcr
- Variable Name:
- Click OK on all dialogs to save your changes.
- Restart your computer for the changes to apply system-wide.
Modify Environment Variables on Windows 10
If you’re running Windows 10, use these steps to configure the same environment variable:
- Right-click the Start menu, then choose System.
- In the Settings window, scroll down to Related Settings and click Advanced System Settings.
- In the System Properties window, go to the Advanced tab and click Environment Variables...
- Under User Variables or System Variables, click New or Edit as needed.
- Input the following:
- Variable Name:
IRONOCR_INSTALL_DIR - Variable Value:
C:\Program Files (x86)\IronSoftware\IronOcr
- Variable Name:
- Click OK and Apply to save changes.
- Restart your computer for full effect.
Need Help?
If you run into any installation issues, rest assured that we have resources to help you:
- IronOCR Troubleshooting Guide
- Technical Support Page
- Or reach out to our support team directly.
Kye Stuart merges coding passion and writing skill at Iron Software. Educated at Yoobee College in software deployment, they now transform complex tech concepts into clear educational content. Kye values lifelong learning and embraces new tech challenges.
Outside work, they enjoy PC gaming, streaming on Twitch, and outdoor activities like gardening and walking their dog, Jaiya. Kye’s straightforward approach makes them key to Iron Software’s mission to demystify technology for developers globally.
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