Step 1: Download & Install Red Alert
Click the link below to navigate to CnCNet, where you can download the community installer for Red Alert. This download features both Singleplayer and Multiplayer.
Click here to download from CnCNet.
Note: this game has been officially been released as freeware, more information can be found here.
Step 2: Run the installer
The Red Alert installer will guide you through on how to install the game. Make sure you do a full web install when prompted.
Once the installer has finished, you can open the settings tool. In the settings window, you can set your in-game resolution.
Step 3: Play
You now have the ability to play Single player or play online via the CnCNet launcher.
How to Play Red Alert on Windows 11 | PC Setup Guide: compatibility checklist
Before starting, verify the correct game edition, choose the Windows-specific installer from the original community source, launch offline once, and only then configure multiplayer. Paid titles require legitimate game files.
If the game does not launch
Try the renderer options documented by the relevant game project. An empty window or stretched menus typically indicate a display compatibility issue, while a failed lobby join is a separate networking problem.
For additional help, read our Windows multiplayer troubleshooting guide and Windows 11 setup overview.