Applies to Windows 8

What is program compatibility?

Program compatibility is a mode in Windows that lets you run programs written for earlier versions of Windows. Most programs written for Windows 7 also work in Windows 8, but some older programs might run poorly or not at all.

Run a troubleshooter

If an older program doesn't run correctly, first run the Program Compatibility troubleshooter. It can automatically detect and fix common problems that prevent older programs from installing or running correctly.

Warning

Warning

  • Don’t use the Program Compatibility Troubleshooter on antivirus programs, firewall software, backup software or disk utilities not designed for Windows 8, or on system programs that came with Windows. This might cause data loss or create a security risk.

  • Open Program Compatibility Troubleshooter by swiping in from the right edge of the screen, tapping Search (or if you're using a mouse, pointing to the upper-right corner of the screen, moving the mouse pointer down, and then clicking Search), entering program compatibility in the search box, tapping or clicking Settings, and then tapping or clicking Run programs made for previous versions of Windows.

Tip

Tip

  • You can also open the Program Compatibility troubleshooter in the desktop by pressing and holding or right-clicking a program's icon or shortcut, and then tapping or clicking Troubleshoot compatibility.

Other things to try

If the troubleshooter isn't able to fix the problem, try the following: