Issues Running AOE2 on Windows 7?

I'm totally new here. If this isn't the proper place to ask my question, please let me know.

So I have the original AOE2 and the Conqueror's Expansion on disc, and I've installed it on a Windows 7 computer.

For whatever reason, once it's installed and I go to open it, nothing happens.

I looked around online and it seems many people have this issue on Windows 7. I'm also seeing a lot of people recommending UserPatch. Would I just install this instead of installing the regular game?

Also, everything I've read related to UserPatch makes it seems like it only works for the Conqueror's Expansion - is the base AOE2 game included with UserPatch as well? I'm only going to be playing single player, and would like to play the base game too.

I'm essentially technologically illiterate, so apologies if this is a stupid question. Any help is appreciated.