Do I really need to reboot when installing Macro Express or Macro Express Pro?

The short answer is, Yes.

While Macro Express is running it uses something called the Windows ‘hooks’ to watch for keystrokes, mouse clicks and mouse movements. The file mexhook.dll performs this service. Once Macro Express runs, all other programs that accept keystrokes, mouse clicks and, to a lesser extent, mouse movements, depend on mexhook.dll being loaded and running.

If applications are running when you install a new version of Macro Express or Macro Express Pro, a new copy of mexhook.dll cannot be installed. The installer discovers that another program (Notepad, Word, Excel or any other application) is currently using mexhook.dll so it cannot be replaced. However, if not currently loaded and running, newer versions of other files that Macro Express uses, like macexp.exe and macedit.exe, are installed.

At this point, until you reboot your computer, files from two different versions of Macro Express may be installed or running on your computer. Continuing to run Macro Express without rebooting runs the risk of unusual and unexpected behaviors that can cause your computer to lock up or crash.

“But,” you may say, “I have done this before and it has worked.” Yes, if the old and new versions of the files happen to be compatible with one another, Macro Express will seem to work correctly. This is not always the case, however.

The first panel of the Macro Express installation progam recommends that all other programs be terminated before continuing to install. You may be able to avoid the reboot step if you close Macro Express before starting the installer and if you close all other programs that accept keyboard or mouse input. But, if the installer suggests that you reboot, you should reboot.

If you have problems with your computer or Macro Express after installing a new version and skipping the reboot step, please reboot your computer before asking for help. You may also need to reinstall Macro Express, this time following the reboot recommendation.