Quick Summary
The error "This app can't run on your PC" on Windows typically indicates an incompatibility issue between the application you're trying to run and your computer's operating system or hardware. This could be due to the app being designed for a different architecture (like 32-bit vs. 64-bit), an older version of Windows, or missing dependencies.
Common Causes
- Architecture Mismatch (32-bit vs. 64-bit): The application is built for a different processor architecture than your operating system. For example, a 32-bit application won't natively run on a 64-bit version of Windows (although 64-bit Windows can typically run 32-bit applications, this is not always the case, and a 16 bit app is not compatible with 64 bit).
- Incompatible Operating System Version: The application requires an older or newer version of Windows than the one you are currently using. Some older apps are not compatible with newer versions of Windows, and vice-versa. This can happen after upgrading Windows.
- Missing System Requirements: Your computer might not meet the minimum hardware or software requirements to run the application. This could include insufficient RAM, an incompatible graphics card, or missing software libraries.
- Corrupted Application Files: The application's installation files may be damaged or incomplete due to a corrupted download, incomplete installation, or other issues.
- Driver Incompatibility: Certain applications might require specific drivers that are outdated, corrupted, or incompatible with your hardware and OS.
Step-by-Step Fixes
Method 1: Run the Program Compatibility Troubleshooter
Step 1: Right-click on the application's executable file (the .exe file).
Step 2: Select Properties.
Step 3: Go to the Compatibility tab.
Step 4: Click on Run compatibility troubleshooter.
Step 5: Follow the on-screen instructions to let Windows automatically detect and apply compatibility settings. You can also choose to manually specify the settings.
Method 2: Run the Program as Administrator
Step 1: Right-click on the application's executable file (the .exe file).
Step 2: Select Run as administrator.
Step 3: If this resolves the issue, you can set the program to always run as administrator by going to the Compatibility tab in Properties and checking the box labeled Run this program as an administrator.
Method 3: Check System Requirements and Update Drivers
Step 1: Visit the application's official website or documentation to find the minimum and recommended system requirements.
Step 2: Compare these requirements to your computer's specifications (CPU, RAM, graphics card, operating system, etc.).
Step 3: Update your device drivers, especially your graphics card driver. You can typically download the latest drivers from the manufacturer's website (e.g., NVIDIA, AMD, Intel).
Step 4: Ensure the system has all necessary updates installed, including the latest DirectX versions.
Method 4: Reinstall the Application
Step 1: Uninstall the application completely through Settings > Apps (or Programs and Features in older versions of Windows).
Step 2: Download a fresh copy of the application from its official website, ensuring the download is legitimate.
Step 3: During the installation, temporarily disable your antivirus software as it can sometimes interfere with the installation process.
Step 4: Reinstall the application.
Method 5: Check architecture of executable (Advanced)
Step 1: Right click on the program, and select 'Properties'
Step 2: Look to see if the file contains the words '32-bit' or '64-bit'. Some programs will not indicate the architecture
Step 3: Search online if your architecture is supported by your flavor of Windows. For example, you can search online 'can i run 32 bit apps on 64 bit windows?'