Compatibility mode#Operating systems

A compatibility mode is a special mode of software, especially in operating systems in which compatibility with most older versions of the same product or with other products is achieved. To be distinguished is the compatibility mode of an emulation that simulates an entire operating system or hardware. One example is the compatibility modes in operating systems from Microsoft designed to make software for older legacy OS versions available.

For Windows 2000 ( from Service Pack 2 ), Windows XP, Vista and Windows 7 compatibility mode is available. For these operating systems in the Windows Explorer, the context menu of an executable file (*. Exe) to be called and there under Properties / Compatibility check box program in compatibility mode for enabled. Can then be selected from a list box, an older operating system or a specific service pack.

In compatibility mode, the operating system Windows 2000, Windows XP, Vista or Windows 7 is compared to an application ( exe file ) certain characteristics of an older operating system version to restore the ability to run the application. In this context of a shim (English shim " washer, shim " ) is spoken.