Sometimes you come across a piece of software that's essential to your work or daily routine, but the developer has stopped supporting it, and over time, it becomes incompatible with newer versions of the operating system, such as Windows 10 or Windows 11. 😩

This can be incredibly frustrating, especially if it's an app you use daily and depend on. As time goes on, compatibility with future versions of Windows declines, which can render the program completely unusable. 💻❌

Personally, I have some applications that were designed for Windows 7 and are no longer compatible with my PC, as they have been officially discontinued. This is a common problem for many users who need to continue using older software without having to seek paid solutions or change their entire workflow. 🚫💵

Fortunately, there is a way to run almost any old program in Windows 11, and best of all, there's no need to install third-party software or make complicated configurations in system settings. 🔧👌

Run older programs in Windows 11 with compatibility mode

Windows 11 includes a built-in tool that lets you run apps designed for older versions of Windows 10, Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP, and even Windows 98 or Windows 95. 🕹️

This is possible thanks to the Compatibility mode, a function that tricks the program into thinking it's running on an older version of WindowsThis is especially useful when an application stops working due to changes in system architecture, Windows libraries, or security permissions. 🔑

With this feature, Many older programs can continue to run without having to search for alternative versions.However, keep in mind that not all apps will work. Some rely on specific drivers or technologies that have been removed in newer versions of the system. ⚠️

For example, software that requires older versions of DirectX, 16-bit drivers, or outdated dependencies may not run correctly, even with compatibility mode enabled. 📉

How to run old programs in Windows 11

• Locate the program's executable file (.exe) and right-click on it.
• Select Properties and go to the tab Compatibility.
• Check the option Run this program in compatibility mode for:.
• A drop-down menu will appear where you can choose the version of Windows for which the program was designed.
• If the program is very old, the best option is usually to select Windows XP Service Pack 3 or the most appropriate version based on your needs. 🗂️

• You can also activate additional options, such as Reduced color mode either Run the program with a screen resolution of 640×480 pixels, which can be very useful for older software that doesn't adapt well to modern screens. 🖥️
• Finally, click on Apply and then in Accept to save the changes.

Following these steps, You should be able to run many older programs on Windows 11. without having to install virtual machines. While compatibility mode is a powerful tool, it doesn't ensure that all older applications will work. 🔒

As we mentioned before, some applications require specific drivers, older libraries, or dependencies that have been removed in newer versions of Windows. In these cases, it may be necessary to resort to more advanced solutions, such as emulation environments. 🛠️

Hidden Windows 11 features that will make your life easier

One of the lesser-known features of Windows 11 is the wide range of hidden features that can make your life easier. Microsoft has incorporated advanced tools that often go unnoticed, but can improve system compatibility, performance, and security. ✨

For example, you can enable compatibility settings, use sandboxing for Testing programs without affecting the main system, or the option to recover previous versions of files, features that not all users are familiar with but that are very useful in everyday life. 🔄

In my case, thanks to these functions, I have managed to install and run my favorite Windows 7 programs on Windows 11 without any difficulties.It's not as complicated as it sounds, and with the right settings, you can continue using legacy software on modern systems without any hassle. 🎉