Before you install
A reliable order for downloading, updating, and configuring
Handling installer selection separately from node configuration makes it easier to avoid confusion between architecture, permissions, and proxy status.
STEP A
Confirm the system and architecture
First identify whether the device runs Windows, macOS, Android, or Linux, then check the processor architecture. On macOS, distinguish Apple Silicon from Intel; on Android, distinguish arm64 from universal; on Linux, also choose between deb and rpm package systems. A mismatch may cause the app not to open, an architecture error, or the package manager to reject the installation.
STEP B
Back up existing configuration
If the client is already installed, save the subscription URL, manual nodes, routing rules, and local port settings before updating. Graphical clients can usually retain existing settings, but a quick backup prevents repeated setup after an OS upgrade, directory change, or cross-version migration. Store backups somewhere under your control, and do not share subscription URLs publicly.
STEP C
Quit the old version before installing
Closing the main window does not always end the process. On desktop systems, also check the system tray or menu bar and make sure the old client has fully quit before installing the new version. This releases configuration files, program files, and local listening ports. On mobile devices, wait for the update to finish before reopening the client.
STEP D
Restore the subscription and verify the connection
After launching the client, confirm that the subscription is still present and run a subscription update. Choose a node with complete parameters, enable the system proxy or the client's connection mode, then access a familiar online service to verify resolution and connectivity. If something fails, check the client log and local proxy status first rather than changing several protocol parameters at once.