How to Run an Old Program in Compatibility Mode

Windows 10 and 11 include a compatibility mode that makes the operating system behave more like an older version when running specific programs. It is built right into Windows and takes about a minute to set up.

Use the automatic Compatibility Troubleshooter

This is the easiest approach and works well for most older programs.

1. Find the program's shortcut or .exe file. If it is a shortcut on the desktop, right-click it.
2. Choose 'Troubleshoot compatibility'.
3. Select 'Try recommended settings'. Windows will apply its best guess and let you test the program.
4. If the program opens, click 'Yes, save these settings'. If not, choose 'Try different settings' to pick a specific Windows version manually.

Set compatibility mode manually

If the troubleshooter does not help, you can choose the settings yourself.

1. Right-click the program's shortcut or .exe file and choose 'Properties'.
2. Click the Compatibility tab.
3. Tick 'Run this program in compatibility mode for:' and choose an older version of Windows from the drop-down (try Windows 8 first, then Windows 7 if needed).
4. You can also tick 'Run this program as an administrator' if the program needs elevated permissions.
5. Click 'Apply' then 'OK', and try running the program.

What compatibility mode cannot fix

Compatibility mode helps with programs designed for an older Windows version but otherwise intact. It cannot fix programs that require old hardware, 16-bit programs (which do not run on 64-bit Windows at all), or programs that rely on services no longer present in Windows 11. In those cases, a virtual machine running an older OS is sometimes the only option.

Not sure which setting to try? Ask us and include the program name and the error you see.