How do you test and verify software compatibility before installing or updating software on Windows 10?

1 Check the system requirements

The first step to test and verify software compatibility is to check the system requirements of the software you want to install or update. The system requirements are the minimum hardware and software specifications that your device needs to run the software properly. You can usually find the system requirements on the software's website, documentation, or packaging. Compare the system requirements with your device's specifications, such as the processor, memory, disk space, operating system, and graphics card. If your device meets or exceeds the system requirements, you can proceed to the next step. If not, you may need to upgrade your device or look for an alternative software.

2 Run the compatibility troubleshooter

The second step to test and verify software compatibility is to run the compatibility troubleshooter. The compatibility troubleshooter is a built-in tool in Windows 10 that can automatically detect and fix common compatibility issues with software. You can run the compatibility troubleshooter by right-clicking on the software's executable file or shortcut, selecting Properties, and then clicking on the Compatibility tab. From there, you can either click on Run compatibility troubleshooter to let Windows 10 find the best compatibility settings for the software, or manually choose a compatibility mode based on the previous version of Windows that the software was designed for. After applying the compatibility settings, you can test the software and see if it works as expected.

3 Use a virtual machine

The third step to test and verify software compatibility is to use a virtual machine. A virtual machine is a software that can create and run a simulated environment of another operating system on your device. This can allow you to test and verify software compatibility without affecting your main system or other applications. You can use a virtual machine software, such as VirtualBox or VMware, to create a virtual machine with the operating system and specifications that match the software's system requirements. Then, you can install and run the software on the virtual machine and check for any compatibility issues. If the software works well on the virtual machine, you can safely install or update it on your main system.

4 Create a system restore point

The fourth step to test and verify software compatibility is to create a system restore point. A system restore point is a snapshot of your system's settings and files at a specific point in time. You can use a system restore point to undo any changes or problems that may occur after installing or updating software on your device. You can create a system restore point by opening the Control Panel, clicking on System and Security, and then clicking on System. From there, you can click on System Protection, select your system drive, and then click on Create. You can name your system restore point and then click on Create again. After creating a system restore point, you can install or update the software and test it for compatibility. If you encounter any issues, you can use the System Restore tool to revert your system to the previous state.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?