Start programs in compatibility mode

If programs do not run as desired or cannot be opened at all, you can start them in compatibility mode. We'll show you how it works.

Run Windows programs in compatibility mode

1. Right-click the EXE file that you normally use to start the program.
2. Select the "Properties" at the bottom of the context menu.
3. Click the Compatibility tab above.
4. You can make numerous settings here. If you don't know what you have to do, you can click on the button "Troubleshoot program compatibility" above (see picture). Then a wizard starts, which analyzes the problem and tries to fix it.
5. If you use Windows 8, for example, and know that the program is only supported until Windows 7, you can activate the checkmark in front of the item "Run program in compatibility mode for" and then select an operating system. Then click "OK" to apply the settings. If the start still does not work, try the same for an older version of Windows.

The practical tip relates to Windows 8. However, the procedure does not differ from that of older versions of Windows. This practical tip shows you how to always run applications as an administrator.