With each new version of Windows, users often experience compatibility issues with older apps or programs. This guide explains why such issues occur and provides practical solutions to address them.
Why do apps become incompatible
Apps can become incompatible with new Windows versions due to changes in the OS's architecture, security features, or system requirements. After upgrading to a newer Windows version, previously working apps might stop functioning properly as they may not support these updates, impacting PC stability and performance. You might see messages like, "This app or game can't run on your device." These issues can occur even with apps that were compatible with earlier versions of the same Windows platform.
Troubleshoot compatibility issues
Notes:
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If you have printer or scanner problems after a Windows upgrade or update, see Fix printer connection and printing problems in Windows.
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If you have Bluetooth problems after a Windows upgrade or update, see Fix Bluetooth problems in Windows.
Follow the below troubleshooting steps to make the app compatible with the new windows version.
Check for updates
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Microsoft Store Apps: If you downloaded the app from Microsoft Store, visit the store and check for updates by following the guide Get updates for apps and games in Microsoft Store.
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Other Apps: If the app wasn’t downloaded from the Microsoft Store, check the publisher’s website for a new or updated version. Search for terms like "Windows compatibility" to locate relevant updates.
Run the Program Compatibility Troubleshooter
If an app doesn't have updates, you can use the Program Compatibility Troubleshooter for assistance. Click the link below to open the troubleshooter directly, or follow the steps provided to access it manually.
Run the Program Compatibility Troubleshooter
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Select Start > Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
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Locate Program Compatibility Troubleshooter and select Run.
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Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
What to do if the app isn't functioning properly
Sometimes, opening an app may show a message that it might not work correctly. You can open and run the app but exhibit minor issues, such as flickering windows, unresponsiveness, or glitches during remote use. In such cases, try these steps:
-
Run the compatibility troubleshooter as described above.
-
Update your device drivers to the latest versions via Windows Update. For more information refer to how to update drivers.
Note: If you can't install your usual antivirus app right away, we've got you covered by the built-in, automatic Windows antivirus solution. See Stay protected with Windows Security.
With each new version of Windows, users often experience compatibility issues with older apps or programs. This guide explains why such issues occur and provides practical solutions to address them.
Why do apps become incompatible
Apps can become incompatible with new Windows versions due to changes in the OS's architecture, security features, or system requirements. After upgrading to a newer Windows version, previously working apps might stop functioning properly as they may not support these updates, impacting PC stability and performance. You might see messages like, "This app or game can't run on your device." These issues can occur even with apps that were compatible with earlier versions of the same Windows platform.
Troubleshoot compatibility issues
Follow the below troubleshooting steps to make the app compatible with the new windows version.
Notes:
-
If you have printer or scanner problems after a Windows upgrade or update, see Fix printer connection and printing problems in Windows.
-
If you have Bluetooth problems after a Windows upgrade or update, see Fix Bluetooth problems in Windows.
Check for updates
-
Microsoft Store Apps: If you downloaded the app from Microsoft Store, visit the store and check for updates by following the guide Get updates for apps and games in Microsoft Store.
-
Other Apps: If the app wasn’t downloaded from the Microsoft Store, check the publisher’s website for a new or updated version. Search for terms like "Windows compatibility" to locate relevant updates.
Run the program compatibility troubleshooter
If an app doesn't have updates, you can use the Program Compatibility Troubleshooter for assistance. Click the link below to open the troubleshooter directly, or follow the steps provided to access it manually.
Run the Program Compatibility Troubleshooter
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Select Start > Settings >Update & Security.
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From the left-hand menu, select Troubleshoot, then click Additional troubleshooters.
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Go to Find and fix other problems section and select Program Compatibility Troubleshooter.
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Select Run the troubleshooter and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
What to do if the app isn't functioning properly
Sometimes, opening an app may show a message that it might not work correctly. You can open and run the app but exhibit minor issues, such as flickering windows, unresponsiveness, or glitches during remote use. In such cases, try these steps:
-
Run the compatibility troubleshooter as described above.
-
Update your device drivers to the latest versions via Windows Update. For more information refer to how to update drivers.
Note: If you can't install your usual antivirus app right away, we've got you covered by the built-in, automatic Windows antivirus solution. See Stay protected with Windows Security.
