This article explains how to install VDM and the required Microsoft runtime components, complete the MSI installation, and configure VDM for first use.
Installation Process
Starting with version 10, VDM introduces significant changes to the installation and upgrade process:
- VDM version 9 (or older) and version 10 (or later) can now be installed on the same computer. This allows users to explore and transition to newer versions while still maintaining access to older versions.
- VDM installations and updates are now managed using a Microsoft Installer package (MSI). This simplifies deployment, upgrades, and maintenance across multiple systems.
- Beginning with version 2026.03.30.0, VDM was migrated to .NET 10 and now requires specific Microsoft .NET 10 runtime components to be installed.
- Before installing the .NET 10 version of VDM, it may be necessary to uninstall existing Microsoft runtime components if conflicts occur.
- For detailed instructions on installing the required runtime components, refer to the VDM .NET 10 Runtime Installation Guide.
Important Note
Views created in newer versions of VDM are not backwards compatible with older versions. Attempting to open or run newer Views in older versions of VDM may result in errors or unexpected behavior.
To avoid compatibility issues:
- Be cautious when opening newer Views in older VDM versions
- Always create backups of Views before making modifications or upgrades
Video tutorial
Install VDM
1. Download and run the installer
Download the VDM.msi installation file:
After the download completes, double-click VDM.msi to begin the installation.
2. Continue the setup
Select Next to continue through the installer.
3. Accept the license agreement
Review the End User License Agreement.
Select I Agree, then select Next.
4. Select the installation location
Choose where VDM will be installed.
The default installation path is:
C:\Program Files\BridgeWorks LLC\BridgeWorks VDM
If you do not need a custom location, keep the default path.
Select Everyone, then select Next.
5. Continue the installation
Select Next when prompted.
6. Allow the installer to make changes
If Windows prompts you to allow the installer to make changes to the computer, select Yes.
7. Wait for the installation to complete
Allow the installation process to finish.
8. Close the installer and launch VDM
When the installation is complete, select Close.
Launch VDM.
If the required .NET 10 runtime components are not installed, VDM may prompt you to install them.
Required components:
- .NET Windows Desktop Runtime 10 (x64)
- ASP.NET Core Runtime 10 (x64)
For additional information, see:
VDM .NET 10 Runtime Installation Guide
OPTIONS file detection
The first time VDM is launched, it may detect an existing OPTIONS file.
If an OPTIONS file is found and you want to use it, select Yes.
The OPTIONS file can contain paths and settings for items such as:
- Registration information
- Connection Profiles
- Views
- Application settings
- Other VDM configuration data
Note: OPTIONS files are typically carried over from previous VDM installations or shared environments.
Import an OPTIONS file
If VDM does not automatically detect an OPTIONS file and you have one available, VDM may prompt you to import it.
Browse to the location of the OPTIONS file and select it.
Select an OPTIONS file
Browse to the location of the OPTIONS file you want to import, then select the file to continue.
Registration
An OPTIONS file is not required to use VDM.
If you do not have an OPTIONS file, continue with the VDM registration process.
See:
Registering and Activating VDM.
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