This guide explains how to update your existing FluidFlow 3.5+ installation to the latest release while preserving your data, preferences, and license settings.
1 – Backup Your Existing Installation
Before updating, create a complete backup of your installation and configuration files.
Locate your installation folder
Default location, typically:
C:\\Program Files (x86)\\Flite\\FluidFlow3
Copy and store all files in this folder as a backup.
Backup configuration and data folders
Open:
C:\\Program Files (x86)\\Flite\\FluidFlow3\\PSFF.INI
in a text editor (e.g., Notepad).
Make a backup of the folders listed under:
DataFolder (e.g.,
C:\\Users\\Public\\Documents\\Flite\\FluidFlow3\\Data)PreferencesFolder (e.g.,
C:\\Users\\Public\\Documents\\Flite\\FluidFlow3\\Preferences)NetworkAccessFolder (e.g.,
C:\\Users\\Public\\Documents\\Flite\\FluidFlow3)
Notes
Network installations: Paths may be replaced with server names and shares, e.g.:
\\\\ServerName\\FluidFlow3App \\\\ServerName\\FluidFlow3
If no PSFF.INI is present: Defaults are typically
[Public Documents]\\Flite\\FluidFlow3\\...for data, preferences, and network access folders.Older pre-3.5 installs: May use the installation folder and subfolders (
\\DATA,\\Preferences) by default. Even if already on 3.5+, backing up is still strongly recommended before updating.
2 – Download the Latest Installer
Go to: FluidFlow Customer Portal
Log in with your username and password.
If you don’t know these, email: [email protected]
Click the link to download: FluidFlow3 Setup (exe).
Notes
If you originally installed via the ZIP method, download FluidFlow3 (zip) instead to update.
3 – Run the Update
Run the downloaded installer on the same machine (or server) where FluidFlow is currently installed.
The installer will detect your existing installation and update:
Core executable (PSFF.EXE)
Help files
Default folder contents
Notes
Network installations: Run the installer physically on the server or via Remote Desktop—do not run directly over LAN/WAN.
Data folder: Not overwritten. If changes to the database format occur in a new version, your existing data will be copied to the new format without altering the originals.
Preferences folder: Not overwritten. If the update includes format changes (e.g., Unicode environment set files), existing
.FFSfiles remain unchanged, and updated versions are stored in subfolders for the new version.
Why Staying Up-to-Date Matters
With calculation software, it’s always advisable to be on the latest release to:
Protect your investment in your FluidFlow license
Ensure results are accurate and aligned with the latest engineering standards
Benefit from enhanced features, performance improvements, and bug fixes
License replacement is included under your active Support, Updates, and Maintenance (SUM) policy.