Run a Program that Doesn’t Recognize Vista
Lots of apps check the operating system during installation to make sure the version of Windows is supported. This is designed to prevent the user from installing it in an old version of Windows that doesn’t have the necessary files or features. Sometimes, however, it’ll also block a new version of Windows–such as Windows Vista.
Fortunately, you can configure a program to run in compatibility mode, which causes Windows Vista to lie about the version of Windows. To trick a program (usually a Setup file) into thinking you’ve got Windows XP, follow these steps:
1. Right-click the program and then click Properties.
2. Click the Compatibility tab.
3. Select the Run this program in compatibility mode for check box. Then, select Windows XP (Service Pack 2) from the list.
4. Select the Run this program as an administrator check box (just to help further reduce compatibility problems).
4. Click OK.
Now, re-run the program. It should work this time.
For more information, read the Windows Vista Resource Kit (co-authored by your very own Tony Northrup). Got a question for Tony? Send an e-mail to qa@vistaclues.com.
Posted: January 30th, 2007 under Compatibility, Troubleshoot.
Comments: 6
Comments
Pingback from Advice for New Vista Users - Windows Vista help
Time: January 30, 2007, 5:13 pm
[...] Enable compatibility mode for programs that don’t work. Then, visit the software developer’s website, and write them a note asking for an update that’s compatible with Vista. They might not realize that their users have Vista up and running. [...]
Comment from Anonymous
Time: February 2, 2007, 3:52 pm
thats very kind to share this information by internet.
Thanks
Comment from Dejah
Time: March 22, 2007, 11:04 pm
If I right-click on the program .exe, I get a properties window with the compatability tab. If I right-click on the program icon in the start menu, I get a different properties window that doesn’t have the compatability tab.
Comment from Fendercat
Time: April 19, 2007, 3:33 pm
Thanx for this article I can run perfectly Cool Edit Pro 2, ’cause I couldn´t do that for a long time! : )
Comment from Cindy
Time: July 8, 2007, 3:08 am
I cant change the compatability for this site. It always says cant load game images. I have Windows Vista Premium. Ive been told that VISTA isnt compatible with Sun Java AND to use HP java but i called and HP doesnt have that! Please email me at the above address and give me some suggestions. I have tried everything.
Comment from Ihab
Time: July 23, 2007, 6:46 am
thx guys i really appreciate it
Write a comment