“Removing Previous Versions of Pro Tools | Software”

[EGS]

In a few days, I’m gonna update 2020.5 non-HD Perpetual to 2024.3 Studio Perpetual on Windows 11. I think we're supposed to do a full uninstall first, correct? On these Avid instructions: https://avidtech.my.salesforce-sites...s-Installation they skipped the paragraph (!) called “Removing Previous Versions of Pro Tools | Software”. Anyway, here’s my plan to upgrade:

Macrium boot image.
Uninstall 2020.5 app.
Search the C drive for any/all AVID or DIGI remnants. Delete all remnants & run a reg scan.
Macrium boot image.
Install 2024.3, stock plugs, video codec, included AVID stuff etc per AVID instructions.
Optimizations.
Uninstall AVID Link.
Hopefully my hardware, 3rd party plugs, and Ilok will work.

Am I good? What am I forgetting? I wanna get this update right, so all help/tips much appreciated! (No, I will NOT start with a full OS clean install.) Thanks!

[sw rec]

General consensus is, yes, uninstall the old version first (go into Control Panel/Programs and Features, and UNINSTALL it.) Then install the new version. Previous versions would ONLY install a new version after the old one was gone. Not sure if it still works that way.

[unkJE]

Before uninstalling Pro Tools, I make a copy of anything important to me, such as Program Files/Avid/Pro Tools/Controllers ... even though Controllers is included in PT 2024.3.1 - I wanted a Backup copy, "just in case" ...

I make a copy of my AAX plug-ins Folder

I rename the Pro Tools Folder in Documents - I call it:
Proof Cools
... call it anything you want and delete it in future when it's no longer needed

I also keep a copy of my Pro Tools Preferences from:
C:\Users\*Username*\AppData\Roaming\Avid\Pro Tools

After removing Pro Tools in Programs & Features:

Reboot

Check the Avid Folder that remains in Programs and remove anything not wanted

Run the free CCleaner then CCleaner Registry/Tools/Scan for Issues - repeat until no more Issues are found

Reboot

Install the latest version of Pro Tools

Reboot

Make your Backup Copy (Macrium Reflect)

Reboot

Launch Pro Tools