VST plug-in locations on Windows

Installing VST plug-ins on Windows can be confusing. Where do they go? Why do some programs find them while others don’t? Don’t worry! We’ll make it simple and easy to understand.

What Are VST Plug-ins?

VST plug-ins are software instruments and effects. They help you create music inside a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW). Some are free, while others cost money.

These plug-ins come as files that need to be placed in the right location. Your DAW must know where to find them.

Where VST Plug-ins Are Stored

Windows doesn’t have one single official place for VST plug-ins. Different DAWs might look in different places. Here are the most common locations:

• 32-bit VST plug-ins: C:\Program Files (x86)\VSTPlugins\
• 64-bit VST plug-ins: C:\Program Files\VSTPlugins\
• Steinberg default location: C:\Program Files\Common Files\VST2\
• For VST3 plug-ins: C:\Program Files\Common Files\VST3\

Some plug-ins install automatically in the right place. Others ask you where to install them. If you’re not sure, pick one of the folders above.

Why Does My DAW Not Find My Plug-in?

Sometimes, after installation, the plug-in doesn’t appear in your DAW. Here’s what you can do:

1. Check the installation folder: Make sure the plug-in is in the correct directory.
2. Rescan your plug-ins: Most DAWs have a function to rescan plug-ins. Look for a “Scan” or “Rescan” button in your DAW settings.
3. Make sure you have the right version: Installing a 64-bit plug-in in a 32-bit DAW won’t work.
4. Manually add the folder to your DAW: Some DAWs let you add custom VST folders in the settings.

Setting Up Custom VST Locations

If you want to organize your plug-ins, you can create a custom folder. For example:

• C:\VSTPlugins\ (for all your VSTs in one place)
• D:\Music\Plugins\ (if you have a second drive for music production)

Once you’ve set up a custom location, be sure to tell your DAW where to look.

How to Add a VST Folder in Different DAWs

Each DAW has a slightly different way to add VST plug-in folders. Here’s how to do it in some popular ones:

FL Studio

• Go to Options > File settings.
• Find the VST Plug-ins Extra Search Folder.
• Click the folder icon and add your VST folder.
• Rescan and restart if needed.

Ableton Live

• Open Preferences (Ctrl + ,).
• Go to the Plug-ins tab.
• Turn on Use VST2 Plug-in Custom Folder.
• Click Browse and select your folder.

Reaper

• Go to Options > Preferences.
• Select VST under Plug-ins.
• Click Edit path list and add your folder.
• Click Re-scan.

Final Tips

• Keep your plug-ins organized. Use one main folder.
• Always install 64-bit plug-ins if your DAW supports them.
• Update your DAW and plug-ins regularly to avoid issues.

Now you know where VST plug-ins go on Windows. With the right setup, your music production workflow will be smooth and creative.