As we all know, Windows versions are constantly updated. For example, many users currently have updated to Windows 11 or are learning why they need to update to Windows 11. Although most applications created for earlier versions of Windows will run smoothly in the latest versions of Windows 10 and Windows 11, some older applications may not work.
Windows 10 compatibility mode is a software mechanism that helps your old programs run on the new operating system by emulating the environment provided by older versions of Windows.
Now let’s talk about how to run a program in compatibility mode.
How to Run a Program in Compatibility Mode in Windows 10/11
Way 1. Run Program Compatibility Troubleshooter
Windows built-in compatibility problems troubleshooter – Program Compatibility Troubleshooter can help you detect and fix application compatibility issues automatically.
There are a couple of ways to run the Program Compatibility Troubleshooter. Here we take the right-click context menu for example.
Right-click the desktop icon of the program that is not compatible with the current Windows version to choose Troubleshoot compatibility.
Then Windows will start to detect issues. Next. in the pop-up windows, you need to choose the appropriate options based on your situation according to the on-screen instructions. After completing these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to run the problematic application smoothly.
Way 2. Manually Configure the Compatibility Mode
In addition to using the Program Compatibility Troubleshooter, you are allowed to manually configure compatibility settings. This way allows you to specify a certain version of Windows to run the program. Let’s see how to run a program in compatibility mode via file Properties.
Step 1. On your desktop, right-click the target application to select Properties.
Step 2. In the pop-up window, move on to the Compatibility tab. Under the Compatibility mode section, check the option of Run this program in compatibility mode for.
Step 3. Select the correct Windows version from the drop-down menu.
Step 4. Finally, click Apply and then OK.
Now you can try to install or launch the program to check if it can run as normal on your computer.
See Also: Steps to Check If Windows 7 Apps Compatible With Windows 10.
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Bottom Line
This article explains what is the compatibility mode and how to turn on compatibility mode in Windows 10/11. When your program cannot run normally on your computer, you can use the ways mentioned above to run it in compatibility mode.
If you have any questions about how to run a program in compatibility mode or MiniTool software, welcome to tell us in the comment zone below or send an email to [email protected].
About The Author
Position: Columnist
Shirley graduated from English major and is currently an editor of MiniTool Team. She likes browsing and writing IT-related articles, and is committed to becoming a professional IT problem solver. The topic of her articles are generally about data recovery, data backup, and computer disk management, as well as other IT issues. In spare time, she likes watching movies, hiking and fishing.