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Quick Answer

Right-click the app's shortcut or installer, select Properties, go to the Compatibility tab, check Run this program in compatibility mode for, and select an older version of Windows like Windows 8.

How to Fix "This app can't run on your PC" on Windows ​

Applies to: Windows 11, Windows 10
Article Type: Troubleshooting
Last Updated: 2026-07-10

Summary ​

You downloaded a software installer or tried to open an older application, but Windows throws a stark blue window saying, "This app can't run on your PC. To find a version for your PC, check with the software publisher." This happens when there is a mismatch between the app's architecture and your computer's operating system, or when corporate security blocks the app.

Symptoms ​

  • Double-clicking an .exe file immediately triggers the blue "This app can't run on your PC" error
  • The application worked on your old Windows 10 computer but fails on your new Windows 11 laptop
  • You downloaded a program from the internet, but it refuses to install

Prerequisites ​

  • You must be using a Windows 10 or Windows 11 computer
  • You must know where the .exe file or shortcut for the application is located

Instructions ​

1. Check for 32-bit vs. 64-bit Architecture Mismatch ​

The most common reason for this error is downloading a 32-bit program for a 64-bit computer, or vice versa (though modern 64-bit PCs can usually run 32-bit apps, the reverse is never true).

More importantly, if you have a new "ARM-based" laptop (like a Surface Pro with a Snapdragon processor), it cannot natively run older Intel/AMD .exe files without emulation.

  1. Go back to the website where you downloaded the software.
  2. Look for download links labeled 64-bit (x64).
  3. If you have an ARM-based laptop, specifically look for an ARM64 download link.
  4. Download the correct version and try installing it again.

2. Run the App in Compatibility Mode ​

If you are trying to run an older piece of software (designed for Windows 7 or Windows 8), Windows 11 might block it because it doesn't recognize the old code structure.

  1. Right-click the application shortcut or the .exe file.
  2. Select Properties.
  3. Go to the Compatibility tab.
  4. Check the box for Run this program in compatibility mode for:
  5. Select an older version of Windows from the drop-down menu (try Windows 8 or Windows 7).
  6. Click Apply, then OK.
  7. Double-click the app to see if it opens.

3. Check if IT Blocked the Application (AppLocker) ​

In corporate environments, IT teams use security tools like AppLocker or Windows Defender Application Control to block unapproved software. While this usually throws a specific "blocked by administrator" error, it can sometimes trigger the generic "can't run on your PC" error.

  1. Ask yourself: Is this a standard company application, or something you downloaded yourself?
  2. If it's something you downloaded, it is highly likely IT is blocking the execution of unapproved .exe files from the Downloads folder.
  3. Solution: Submit an IT ticket requesting the software be installed for you.

4. Enable "Developer Mode" (For Custom/Internal Apps) ​

If you are a developer, or you are testing a custom app built by your company, Windows might block it because it isn't digitally signed by a recognized publisher.

  1. Open Settings > Privacy & security > For developers.
  2. Toggle Developer Mode to On.
  3. Try running the app again.

(Note: Most corporate IT departments lock this setting. If it's grayed out, you cannot change it).

Troubleshooting ​

WARNING

Never download .exe files from third-party hosting sites (like CNET or Softpedia) if the official publisher's website is available. Third-party sites often bundle malware with old software, which Windows Defender will block from running.

Symptom / ErrorPotential CauseSolution
Error on a brand-new ARM laptopApp is compiled for Intel/AMDCheck the vendor's website for an ARM64 version, or use Windows 11 emulation
Compatibility mode doesn't fix itThe app is a 16-bit application16-bit apps cannot run on modern 64-bit Windows. You must use a virtual machine
"Blocked by your IT Administrator"Corporate security policyRequest the software through your IT helpdesk
SmartScreen blocks the app firstUnrecognized publisherClick "More info" > "Run anyway" (only if you 100% trust the source)