# Using Aperty in the plug-in mode

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While Aperty functions as a full-featured, stand-alone application, you can still use it as a plug-in within other popular photo editing software. During the initial installation of Aperty, you’ll have the option to install plug-ins for any compatible software detected on your system. These plug-ins can also be installed at a later time.

You’ll have the option to install Aperty as a plug-in when you first run the installer, but you can also add it as a plug-in at any time afterward. Installing plug-ins is optional, so you may skip this step if you prefer.

Aperty can be used as a plug-in with the following applications:

<table data-card-size="large" data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th data-hidden data-card-target data-type="content-ref"></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Aperty with Adobe Photoshop</strong></td><td><a href="using-aperty-in-the-plug-in-mode/aperty-with-adobe-photoshop">aperty-with-adobe-photoshop</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Aperty with Adobe Lightroom Classic</strong></td><td><a href="using-aperty-in-the-plug-in-mode/aperty-with-adobe-lightroom-classic">aperty-with-adobe-lightroom-classic</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Aperty for macOS Extension</strong></td><td><a href="using-aperty-in-the-plug-in-mode/aperty-for-macos-extension">aperty-for-macos-extension</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Aperty with Luminar Neo</strong></td><td><a href="using-aperty-in-the-plug-in-mode/aperty-with-luminar-neo">aperty-with-luminar-neo</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

**To install Aperty as a plug-in:**

1. Quit any host applications you plan to install the plug-in for.
2. Launch Aperty.
3. For macOS: Go to *Aperty > Install Plugins*; for Windows: Go to *Aperty > File > Install Plugins*.
4. In the dialog box that appears, select the host applications where you’d like Aperty to function as a plug-in.
5. Click Install for the corresponding apps.

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Windows users should run Aperty as an administrator when installing plug-ins. Right-click the Aperty icon and select **Run as administrator** if prompted. You may be asked to enter your Administrator password to complete the installation.
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