Noninstalled

Noninstalled is a term used in computing to describe software or components that are not installed on a computer system. Instead, such software can be run directly from portable media, a network location, or a dedicated non-system directory, and it typically avoids altering core system components like the registry, system libraries, or startup configurations.

Portability is a central aspect of noninstalled software. Portable applications, self-contained executables, and AppImage-style packages are common examples. These programs are designed to run without formal installation and often store user data in the application’s directory or in a user profile folder. Noninstalled software can also include live or live-boot environments where a complete operating system or set of applications runs from removable media without installation.

Distinctions from uninstalled software are subtle but meaningful. A program that is simply not present on a system is uninstalled by removing it; noninstalled emphasizes the mode of use that avoids installation altogether. Noninstalled solutions may offer easier removal, lower risk of leaving traces, and reduced need for administrator access, but they can also face limitations in system integration, updates, and performance.

Security and maintenance considerations apply as well. Because noninstalled software often lacks deep integration with the host OS, it may be more portable and sandboxed but could present challenges for updates and data synchronization. Users selecting noninstalled options should verify source integrity and consider how data is stored and backed up to avoid data loss.