Running Programs in Windows Compatibility Mode
Often times we don’t
have the option of updating a software package when a new operating
system comes along. Trying to run legacy software in a new operating
system has always been a challenge, but XP does make it a bit easier
and may have the solution for balky software. If you have a program
which is crashing under XP but worked well under a previous version
of Windows, give Compatibility Mode a try. Follow the steps below.
Navigate to the
directory that contains the program executable.
(For this example I’m using WinZip)
C:\Program Files\Utilities\WinZip
Right click on the program executable (it ends in .exe) and click
[Properties]
A screen similar to the one below should appear.
Click the
[Compatibility] tab to open the WINZIP32.EXE property sheet.
Click the [Run this
program in compatibility mode for:] box and select the operating
system you wish to invoke compatibility for from the drop-down menu.
If you want to place restrictions on colors, screen resolution, or
visual themes pertaining to this program use the appropriate check
boxes.
Click [Apply] then [OK] to exit the property sheet.
Test the application
and if necessary change your selection to a different operating
system until you find the compatibility mode which offers the
greatest stability.
|
