Mavis Beacon for Windows 7 and 8: Editions, Requirements and Setup
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Install NowPlenty of schools and homes still keep an older PC for typing practice. Mavis Beacon has a long history on Windows, and several editions were made for Windows 7, Windows 8 and even Windows XP. This page shows which editions list those systems, how their requirements differ and what to watch for on a computer that no longer gets updates. For background on the program itself, see Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing.
Editions for Windows 7, 8 and XP
Two editions sold on Steam list older Windows versions:
- Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing 2020 (Encore Software, released 2021) lists Windows 7 and Windows 8/8.1 as well as Windows 10 and 11.
- Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing Family Edition, powered by UltraKey (released on Steam in 2013), lists Windows XP, Vista, 7 and 8.
Discs labeled with older version numbers or anniversary editions were made for the systems printed on their boxes. Check the box before you buy or install a used copy.
Requirements Compared
| Component | Teaches Typing 2020 | Family Edition (UltraKey) |
|---|---|---|
| Windows | 7, 8/8.1, 10, 11 | XP, Vista, 7, 8 |
| Processor | 64-bit, Core i3 or better | Pentium or AMD Athlon |
| Memory | 2 GB RAM | 512 MB RAM |
| Free disk space | 1 GB | 600 MB |
| Other | DirectX 9.0c, 512 MB video memory, 1500x960 display, broadband internet, browser | None listed |
The 2020 edition is the more demanding one, mainly because it asks for a 64-bit processor and a 1500x960 display. Windows 7 was sold in both 32-bit and 64-bit versions. To check yours, open Start, right-click Computer, choose Properties and read the System type line. On a 32-bit system or a small screen, an older edition is the safer fit.
Installing on an Older PC
- Make sure you have the free space shown above, plus room for the downloaded file.
- For a download, run the setup file from your Downloads folder. For a disc, open the disc in Computer and start the setup file if it does not run on its own.
- Allow the installer when Windows asks for permission, then follow the wizard.
- Open the program from the Start menu on Windows 7, or from the Start screen or app list on Windows 8.
The Mavis Beacon install guide covers the first launch and common setup errors.
Things to Know About Windows 7 Today
Microsoft ended support for Windows 7 on January 14, 2020. The computer still works, but it no longer receives security updates, which leaves it more exposed to viruses and malware. Download installers only from a source you trust and scan them before running them.
The 2020 edition also expects a recent web browser and an internet connection. Its listing names Internet Explorer 11 or later, Firefox or Chrome. Older browsers on an unpatched PC may not meet that.
If you move the lessons to a newer computer, the pages on Windows 10 and Windows 11 explain what changes there.