Make older programs compatible with this version of Windows

Most programs created for earlier versions of Windows will work in this version of Windows, but some older programs might run poorly or not at all. Running the Program Compatibility Troubleshooter should automatically detect and fix some of the most common issues. If that doesn’t work, try changing the settings manually. The following table should help you figure out which setting to adjust.

1. Enter the name of the program in the search box on the taskbar, press and hold (or right-click) the search result, and then select Open file location.
2. Press and hold (or right-click) the program, select Properties, and then select the Compatibility tab.
   • First, select Run compatibility troubleshooter to run the Program Compatibility Troubleshooter. (Note that DPI scaling issues won’t be resolved with the troubleshooter, so refer to the table below for other options.)
   • If you’re still experiencing compatibility problems, adjust one or more of the following settings and select OK when you’re done.

Compatibility settings

Setting	Description
Compatibility mode	Runs the program using settings from a previous version of Windows. Try this setting if you know the program is designed for (or worked with) a specific version of Windows.
Reduced color mode	Uses a limited set of colors in the program. Some older programs are designed to use fewer colors.
Run in 640 × 480 screen resolution	Try this setting if the graphics for the program appear jagged or are rendered improperly.
Override high DPI display scaling behavior	If your program doesn’t appear correctly on a PC with a high DPI display (appearing blurry or in the incorrect size), try one of the following options: Application scaling – Disable all Windows scaling settings and only use the app developer's setting. This option was called Disable display scaling on high DPI settings in previous versions of Windows. System scaling – Overrides the app’s DPI settings and uses the Windows system DPI settings. The app might appear blurry. System (enhanced) – Use Windows system settings optimized to increase the size or resolution of apps developed for regular DPI screens. This setting won’t work for all applications.
Run this program as an administrator	Some programs require administrator privileges to run properly. If you aren't signed in to your PC as an administrator, this option is unavailable.
Change settings for all users	Apply the settings for that program to all accounts on the PC, and select  Change settings for all users. You might be asked for an admin password or to confirm your choice.