Compatibility mode
A compatibility mode is a special mode of software , especially with operating systems , in which compatibility with mostly older versions of the same product or with other products is achieved. One example is the compatibility modes in Microsoft's operating systems , which are intended to make software usable for older operating system versions.
Microsoft Windows
The compatibility mode is available as standard for all Windows versions of the NT series from Windows XP . With these operating systems, the context menu of an executable file (* .exe) can be called up in Windows Explorer and the “ Run program in compatibility mode for” checkbox can be activated there under “Properties / Compatibility”. An older operating system version or a specific service pack can then be selected from a list box .
The compatibility mode was mainly known under Windows XP Home Edition, since private end users had to use this system to switch from the DOS-based Windows 9x systems. The compatibility mode was already deactivated in Windows 2000 from Service Pack 2, but had to be activated and called up manually by the administrator.
In compatibility mode, the operating systems from version Windows 2000 show certain properties of an older operating system version to an application (exe file) in order to restore its operability. In this context, it is also a shim (Engl. Shim "washer, shim") spoken.
Demarcation
An emulator or a virtual machine is not part of the term, as a complete operating system or complete hardware is simulated. An example of this is the "XP mode" integrated in Windows 7 - only in the Professional , Ultimate and Enterprise editions . A specially licensed Windows XP is run virtualized in Windows Virtual PC and partially integrated into the existing desktop using additional software. B. programs installed in XP mode can also be called via the Windows 7 start menu .
Individual evidence
- ↑ Activate the application compatibility mode in Windows 2000 SP2 and SP3. Microsoft Support, article number 279792. Last revision: October 26, 2007 - Revision: 1