How to Fix the “This App Can’t Run on Your PC” Error in Windows 10

The “This app can’t run on your PC” error is a common issue that arises when attempting to install or launch certain applications on Windows 10. This error message typically indicates that the software is not compatible with your system, but there are several ways to fix it. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most effective methods for resolving this error and getting your favorite apps up and running.
Check Compatibility Settings
The first thing you should do when encountering the “This app can’t run on your PC” error is to double-check the compatibility settings of the software. Some applications are designed to work only with specific versions of Windows, and trying to install them on an unsupported system can result in this error. To adjust the compatibility settings of an app, follow these steps:
1. Right-click on the application’s shortcut or executable file.
2. Click on “Properties” from the context menu.
3. Select the “Compatibility” tab.
4. Check the box next to “Run this program in compatibility mode for.”
5. Choose the version of Windows that the app was designed for from the drop-down menu.
6. Click “Apply” and then “OK”.
Update Windows
Another reason why you might be encountering the “This app can’t run on your PC” error is that your Windows operating system is outdated. Some applications require specific updates to be fully compatible with your system, and failure to install them can result in this error. To update your Windows operating system, follow these steps:
1. Click on the Windows menu icon in the lower-left corner of your screen.
2. Select “Settings” from the menu.
3. Click on “Update & Security”.
4. Select “Windows Update” from the left-hand menu.
5. Click on “Check for updates” and wait for the system to scan for available updates.
6. Install any updates that are available and restart your system if prompted to do so.
Run the App Troubleshooter
Windows 10 comes with a built-in troubleshooter that can help diagnose and fix issues with programs and applications. Running this tool can help identify the root cause of the “This app can’t run on your PC” error and provide potential solutions. To run the app troubleshooter, follow these steps:
1. Click on the Windows menu icon and select “Settings”.
2. Click on “Update & Security”.
3. Select “Troubleshoot” from the left-hand menu.
4. Scroll down and click on “Additional troubleshooters”.
5. Select “Windows Store Apps” from the list and click “Run the troubleshooter”.
6. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.
Disable Your Antivirus
In some cases, your antivirus software could be blocking certain applications from running, resulting in the “This app can’t run on your PC” error. If you suspect that this is the case, try temporarily disabling your antivirus software and then attempting to install or launch the app again. To disable your antivirus, follow these steps:
1. Locate the antivirus icon in your system tray (usually at the bottom right-hand corner of your screen).
2. Right-click on the icon and select “Disable” or “Turn off”.
3. Wait a few moments and then attempt to install or run the app again.
4. Once you’ve finished using the app, Re-enable your antivirus software.