Install Hebrew on Windows Vista

Daniel Petri

Jan 8, 2009

How can I install and use Hebrew fonts on my Windows Vista computer?
Windows Vista (and 2000/2003/XP) has the built-in ability to display Hebrew fonts on your system without the need to install language packs or special localized versions of the OS. To see Hebrew fonts on your Windows Vista computer you MUST perform the following tasks precisely in the order listed here. Not doing so might cause your computer to display ??????? instead of Hebrew fonts, especially in Office applications.

Unlike in previous operating systems, the installation of Hebrew support is much simpler and usually does not require a reboot. You can choose to install Hebrew language support during the setup phase of Windows Vista, or at any time after the installation is complete.
Note: You might also want to read the following articles:

Note: This guide is based on the latest beta build of Windows Vista, and it’s possible that the display and screens on an RTM copy of Vista will differ. If that happens I will change the screenshots.

Option 1: During the installation process

After rebooting the computer during the setup process of Windows Vista you will need to wait for the green progress bar to reach the end,

You will then get a chance to select your language settings and locale.

Option 2: On a running installation of Windows Vista

If you already have Windows Vista installed you can basically do the same, only this time it’s done from within Control Panel and you’ll need to have the installation DVD handy, because the OS needs to copy files from it.

Open Control Panel and go to Clock, Language and Region applet.

If you’re running Control Panel in the classic view – go to Regional and Language Options.

When it opens click on the Administrative tab and then click on the Change System Locale button.

You might get a Windows Security warning, asking your permission to use the Regional and Language Options program. Allow it.

In the window, note that English is selected as default.

Change it to Hebrew.

Press Ok then Apply.

On the Location tab select Israel.

On the Formats tab in the Current Format drop-down list select Hebrew (Israel).

Note: If you just want to add Hebrew as another input language but are not required to actually use it as your main day-to-day language, then you can skip steps 4 and 5.

Click on Ok. You might be prompted to supply the installation DVD.
You might be prompted to restart your computer.

You may also want to read:

Install Hebrew on Windows Vista

Option 1: During the installation process

Option 2: On a running installation of Windows Vista

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