How to Run the Program Compatibility Wizard

A multitude of programs were designed to run on operating systems that preceded Windows XP. A wizard included with Windows XP can be used to run the program in such a way that it simulates running under the older operating system. This procedure does not always work, but it is one way to try to get an older program to run under Windows XP.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Click on "Start," in the lower-lefthand corner of the desktop screen. Then click on "All Programs," then "Accessories," and "Program Compatibility Wizard" to begin.
2. Select the radio button for the option you wish to run. As an example, choose the default selection: "I want to choose from a list of programs." Click on "Next."
3. Choose the program to run the wizard on from the list of items in the list. Click "Next."
4. Pick the mode for which this program was designed. Click "Next." Select display settings for the program. Click on "Next." If all of the information on the form is correct, click on "Next" again.
5. Test the new setting to ensure that the program works correctly, then select the correct option. Click on "Next." Select the correct radio button and click on "Next." Again, select the desired radio button, and then click "Next."
6. Tap "Finish" to close the wizard.
7. Repeat Steps 5 and 6 until the program works correctly or it is determined that the program will not run in Windows XP with SP2 correctly until there is an update from the manufacturer.

Tips & Warnings

• Many older programs will not run in Windows XP with SP2 no matter what compatibility settings are used. In that case, the only options are to run on another operating system or to obtain an updated version from the manufacturer. Many games have this problem, and it is not uncommon that no updates are available to make the program run under Windows XP with SP2.

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