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We frequently get asked what Adobe Flash is - mainly because if you're surfing the ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ website and don't have it, you're often directed to ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ WebWise.Ìý This is because we have straightforward guides to installing it - which you can find here:

Guide: Download Flash plug-ins

On top of that, we also have a very informative article about what plug-ins you need and how to install them, which you can find here:

Article: What plug-ins do I need?

You might be wondering, then, why we're answering this question.Ìý Well, it's because people often wonder why, when they buy a new computer, they're asked to install /update Flash.Ìý It's a fair enough question, since you'd think that computers would come with everything you need.

Well, the first reason is that the Flash software - unlike Windows Media Player on a PC or iTunes on a Mac, is owned by a different company not related to your computer or operating system - so, Windows is made and owned by Microsoft, iOS is made and owned by Apple, but Flash is made and owned by Adobe.Ìý As software supplied by a third party Flash rarely comes as standard, however; it often comes with your internet browser - since many websites rely on you having this software to function.

If it has been installed, this is why you might be asked to update it.Ìý If you're wondering why your brand new computer might come with old, out of date software, it's because like most popular software Flash is almost constantly being worked on by developers, as the internet and computers evolve and have new requirements.Ìý This means that in the time between your computer being put together and you switching it on for the first time, Adobe and other companies might have released a new version of their software which you need to update.

Although it's frustrating to have to spend time waiting for new software to download before you start playing with your shiny new computer, it's worth it - without plug-ins like Flash and others you'll find some web pages don't work properly.Ìý Also, updates might have been released to improve security settings, so it's always important to make sure you have the most recent version of all your software.

Anyway, as a reward for all your hard work downloading those plug-ins we've rounded up some of WebWise's favourite ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ Flash games for you to have a go on.Ìý

First up, other sites from ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ Learning have some amazing games - they're supposed to help children and teens with their revision, but we love playing them too.Ìý The slightly odd puzzle game Questionaut from Bitesize is my personal favourite, because I like the cause-and-effect fun of clicking on random items, but we also love the game Greek Hero - it looks great and at one point you get to talk to Socrates.

Then C³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ have loads of fun games - again, for children, but don't let that put you off - children know their games. My favourites are the Shaun the Sheep Championsheeps - particularly Click 'N' Spoon.

Drama Merlin has a great set of games, as does (of course) Doctor Who - it seems like some TV programmes are just tailor made for great games.Ìý Finally, don't forget the legendary Only ConnectÌý - you really have to have your wits about you for this one.Ìý Definitely a game for intellectual types, but very addictive when you get your head around it.

If you want to share your favourite ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ Flash game, please do link to it in the comments - and as always, if you want us to answer a question for you get in touch through our contact form.

As well as working on the WebWise production team, Helen has an interest in short-form video, social media and online marketing.

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