How to install a new port in Windows 9x

Issue

How to install a new port in Windows 9x.

Cause

It may be required that a port be installed before a device utilizing that port will work.

Solution

Before installing a port in Windows 95 or Windows 98 it is also important to verify that the port being installed is also setup properly in CMOS. Additional information about CMOS and how to get into it can be found on our CMOS page. 

Note: Users with laptop computers or desktop computers with an infrared port should also consider disabling the infrared port if it is not being used as this will free resources and resolve possible IRQ or COM port conflicts.

To install a Communication port in Windows 95 follow the below instructions:

  1. Click Start, Settings, Control Panel
  2. Double-click the icon for Add New Hardware
  3. Click Next, Say No, and Click Next
  4. Select Ports (COM & LPT)
  5. Click Next
  6. Select either Communication port for a serial or modem port or Printer port for printer port.
  7. Click Next
  8. Click Finish

Once completed you may need to restart the computer before that port will be present. To verify if the port installed check Device Manager.

To install a Communication port in Windows 98 follow the below instructions:

  1. Click Start, Settings, Control Panel
  2. Double-click the icon for Add New Hardware
  3. Click Next and then Next
  4. Unless Windows 98 detects the Communication port click No and then Next
  5. Click No and then Next
  6. Click Ports (COM & LPT)
  7. Select either Communication port for a serial or modem port or Printer port for printer port.
  8. Click Next
  9. Click Finish

Once completed you may need to restart the computer before that port will be present. To verify if the port installed check Device Manager.