Start 11 install

C drive only?

from Stardock Forums

My 2cents;

When trying to install Start 11, there is no way to configure where it is installed.  I have a small SSD intended only for windows and all my Program Files are on another drive, but Start 11 does not allow me to change this.

Second, when at the drove selection location, there is a back button, but when I click that nothing happens.  In my opinion, it should take me back to the previous screen or it should be greyed out if back is not an option.

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Reply #1 from Stardock Forums Top


My 2cents;

When trying to install Start 11, there is no way to configure where it is installed.  I have a small SSD intended only for windows and all my Program Files are on another drive, but Start 11 does not allow me to change this.

Second, when at the drove selection location, there is a back button, but when I click that nothing happens.  In my opinion, it should take me back to the previous screen or it should be greyed out if back is not an option.
End of quote

For security reasons Start11 must be installed in what is considered a protected location.  Program files is one such location.

Did you actually move your program files folders or are you simply always installing in a custom location which you consider your program files?

Reply #2 from Stardock Forums Top

I can't say anything about the OP's system, but I've created protected folders on other drives via Controlled Folder Access and the installer won't let me change the install location. This is unacceptable. I just bought Start11 today, so I'll give you 2 days to figure something out before I file for a refund.

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Reply #3 from Stardock Forums Top

Quoting MasterZoen, reply 2

I can't say anything about the OP's system, but I've created protected folders on other drives via Controlled Folder Access and the installer won't let me change the install location. This is unacceptable. I just bought Start11 today, so I'll give you 2 days to figure something out before I file for a refund.
End of MasterZoen's quote

The locations you have created are probably not considered secure by Windows (see https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/security/threat-protection/security-policy-settings/user-account-control-only-elevate-uiaccess-applications-that-are-installed-in-secure-locations)

Only the following locations are considered secure by Windows.

  • \Program Files\ including subdirectories
  • \Windows\system32\
  • \Program Files (x86)\ including subdirectories for 64-bit versions of Windows

Note that secure and protected may be different things.  Protecting a folder for example from ransomware wouldn't make it a secure folder. 

Installation into program files is normal and considered good practice and Start11 is hardly massive.

We do offer trial versions for people to try before they purchase.

Technically you could install into program files and then move the installation and register the service using Start11Srv -install from the new location (elevated command prompt), but be aware there may be negative consequences from doing this in terms of security.