If you want to run an old program in the Windows operating system, you should read the following guide in which we will talk about How to run old programs in compatibility mode in Windows? , In this way, you can solve any problem you have in relation to the software of yesteryear.
The old programs
If you have been using a computer for many years, surely there are a few old programs that still attract a lot of attention. Unfortunately, with the passage of time, certain compatibility problems with applications of yesteryear can arise.
In any case, do not worry, since the Windows 10 operating system is prepared to solve these problems in most cases. Given this, we have prepared a guide with which you can, in most circumstances, run those old programs that you like in this new operating system.
How to run old programs in compatibility mode in Windows?
There are several compatibility methods present in Windows 10, below we will discuss the most relevant ones that you should take into account if you run old programs.
Compatibility troubleshooting tool
Windows presents an excellent tool that can solve many problems related to the compatibility of old programs. To enable this option, all you have to do is right-click on the executable of that old program with which you have problems, after that select the option “Fix compatibility problems”.
Once you have selected this option, the system will guide you through the process to solve problems related to the execution of old programs. Either way, there are other options that you can configure to your liking.
Compatibility modes present in Windows 10
The first tab of the compatibility section will show the so-called “Compatibility Mode” which represents a set of options integrated into the Windows 10 operating system, with which it is possible to run programs in compatibility modes for old operating systems.
It is undoubtedly one of the best compatibility options present in Windows 10 since it allows you to run programs designed for operating systems such as Windows 98, Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows Vista or even Windows 7. It is a highly recommended option, in the case that you use applications designed for those operating systems.
Manual settings for old program compatibility
You will be able to enter the manual compatibility configuration options, by right-clicking on the program you want to run, then you must go to properties and finally select the “Compatibility” section. Here you will find the following options.
Run with 256 colors
HDR color can generally be enabled and configured in Windows 10. However, many older programs used reduced color settings compared to today’s standards. It is for this reason that if you use a fairly old program, you may need to enable this configuration option.
Run at 640×480 screen resolution to run older programs in compatibility mode on Windows
It is quite common for older programs to work at lower resolutions compared to current ones. One of the most common resolutions and one that represented the standard for a long time was 640 × 480. By enabling this option, you will be able to adjust screen resolution when running the application.
Disable visual themes
Modern operating systems have many visual configuration options, which enhance the overall appearance of the operating system. In any case, these many times can represent an incompatibility problem with old applications, so it is advisable to disable the visual effects in Windows 10 to avoid the problem.
Disable desktop composition to run old programs in compatibility mode in Windows
Very similar to the previous aspect, with the passage of time the Windows environment has changed, allowing you to customize the theme and desktop background, essentially on the desktop. Enabling this option will disable these customization layers while you are using the old program.
Disable screen scaling if high dpi setting is used
The high dpi setting can be very convenient in modern applications and on the general operating system level. In any case, this function is intended for high-resolution screens as well as programs that allow this functionality. If you experience visual problems when running older applications, you might want to enable this option.