# OpenCPN First Use

Here is what happens once OpenCPN is installed and you start the program for the first time.
First this message greets you. Please remember what you agree to when clicking OK.
Next OpenCPN prompts you to install charts.
And sends you to “Options” to do so. Click on the Charts tab, to install charts. Read all about installing charts in Chart Installation
If you're not quite ready to install yet just click “OK” in the Options dialog.
The worldwide background Map will greet you.
From here explore the different features in OpenCPN by clicking around, or read on…
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## IMPORTANT NEXT STEPS

Getting started using OpenCPN consists of 3 basic steps:

1. Chart Installation of Charts to be read by OpenCPN (OpenCPN does not include charts)
2. Charts Basic Features - Main Source for using charts
3. GPS Setup to communicate with your computer and OpenCPN (Optional, but very useful)

Completing these 3 steps will get you started and allow you to check out the program.
If you still have questions or would just like to get in touch with other OpenCPN users, there is also a fairly large community behind OpenCPN. You can find us in this Cruisers Forum.