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Windows Program Won’t Start or Run Properly

If a program that was running well and then all of a sudden that program will not open or run properly. it may be a result of a software conflict. Some programs will conflict with others for various reasons but the fix can be simple.

Download a Newer Version of the Program

Software companies are many time aware of problems you may encounter with software conflicts and that is why it is important to check for new versions of their software on a regular basis.  Besides fixing conflicts you can also benefit from improved and new features.

Updating a program:

  1. If this option is available, you can update the program fropm an inmternal link but you will have to be connected to the Internet so the program can update itself.   If you are able to open and run the program, search the menu system for an option like Check for Updates.
  2. If you cannot find an internal update option check the program manufacturer’s website to see if a newer version is available. If you own a recent version of the program you may be able to download the update for free but this will vary with the software manufacturer.

Download a Software Patch

In place of a full update and in response to conflicts and bugs, software companies will offer software patches that can be downloaded from their websites.

To locate and download a software patch for your program:

  1. Connect to the Internet and visit the program manufacturers website. Your programs website will normally be displayed in the Help section of your menu system.
  2. Locate and download your programs patch.
  3. Install the patch according to the program manufacturers instructions.

Temporarily Disable Anti-virus or Anti-spyware Software

Anti-virus and anti-spyware software are an important part of the protection and security of your computer, but sometimes they can interfere with the functions of other programs. If when you update update or patch your program it doesn’t solve the problems, try temporarily disabling or shutting down your anti-virus and/or anti-spyware software.  You may see this conflict with a program that requires Internet access that your anti-virus and anti-spyware program is blocking.

To disable Anti-virus or Anti-spyware Software:

  1. Disconnect from your Internet connection,  it. For dial-up services like AOL, MSN, or Earthlink, this is done by logging off your Internet service. For high-speed Internet (DSL or cable), this is done by using the Internet lock feature of your software firewall or by unplugging the Ethernet cable from the back of your computer. 
  2. In the lower-right corner of Windows near the clock, Right-click the icon for your anti-virus or anti-spyware program and select the option to Close or Disable or Shut Down. 
  3. Start the program you have been having trouble with and see if it works properly. If that fixes the problem, then you can keep your anti-virus or anti-spyware program turned off until you are finished using the problem program. 
  4. When you are finished using the program turn on your anti-virus software by right-clicking its icon near the Windows clock and selecting Enable or Restore. Some anti-virus program may require that you restart Windows to function correctly. Or they require that you select the program from your system menu to restart.  I would recommend that you restart your system so that the anti-virus or anti-spyware load as they originally installed.


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