Can’t Use the Program Compatibility Troubleshooter on Windows? Try These Fixes

The Program Compatibility Troubleshooter is a tool from Microsoft that checks for and resolves compatibility issues when running older applications on newer versions of Windows. However, sometimes the troubleshooter fails to work as expected.

If you’re facing this issue, there are several possible causes and ways to fix it. Let’s look into them below.

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1. Check For Corrupted System Files

Corrupted system files can cause the Program Compatibility Troubleshooter not to work correctly. To ensure all your system files are functioning properly, run the built-in System File Checker utility on Windows. Here’s how to do it:

Wait for the scan to finish. This may take several minutes and your PC may restart once or twice during the process. Once the scan is completed, check if the Program Compatibility Troubleshooter works now.

A red table holds a laptop and a cup of tea

2. Repair Corrupted System Image

If the System File Checker was unable to repair corrupt system files, you can use the DISM tool from Command Prompt to fix them. Here’s how to do it:

The DISM tool will start scanning the system for corruption. It can take up to 20 minutes, but it is worth waiting because it can repair a lot of system issues. Once the scan is completed, restart your computer and check if the issue is fixed.

Run SFC Command

3. Uninstall Third-Party Security Software

Sometimes, certain third-party security software can interfere with the Program Compatibility Troubleshooter and cause it to not work. Uninstalling these programs should help.

Follow the on-screen instructions to remove the program from your PC. Once done, restart your PC and try running the Program Compatibility Troubleshooter again.

Run DISM Command

4. Restart the Diagnostic Policy Service

The Diagnostic Policy Service is responsible for allowing the Program Compatibility Troubleshooter to work properly. If it’s not running, restarting it should help the troubleshooter function normally.

Now restart your PC and try running the Program Compatibility Troubleshooter again to see if it works.

Restart Diagnostic Policy Service

5. Run the Troubleshooter in Safe Mode

If you are still experiencing this issue, try running the Program Compatibility Troubleshooter in safe mode. This will help you troubleshoot any compatibility issues more effectively.

To do this, follow the below steps:

6. Reset Windows

If all else fails, you can tryresetting Windows to its default settings. This will reinstall Windows and get rid of any potential issues that may be causing the troubleshooter to not work.

Fixing Program Compatibility Troubleshooter Problems on Windows

If the Program Compatibility Troubleshooter is not working on your computer, read this guide. The steps here will help you fix this issue and have the tool working and running again.

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