Solving Problems 45
General Problems
A program stops responding
A program crashes repeatedly
 HINT: Software usually 
includes installation 
instructions in its 
documentation or on a 
floppy disk or CD.
A program is designed for an earlier Windows operating system
END  THE PROGRAM —
1 Press <Ctrl><Shift><Esc> simultaneously.
2 Click the Applications tab.
3 Click the program that is no longer responding.
4 Click End Task.
TURN THE COMPUTER OFF — If your computer locks up and you are unable 
to get a response by pressing a key on your keyboard or moving your mouse, press 
and hold the power button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns 
off. Then press the power button again to turn on the computer. You might lose 
data if you are unable to perform an operating system shutdown.
CHECK THE SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION — Many software 
manufacturers maintain websites with information that may help you solve the 
problem. Ensure that you properly installed and configured the program. If 
necessary, uninstall and then reinstall the program.
RUN THE PROGRAM COMPATIBILITY WIZARD —
Windows XP provides a Program Compatibility Wizard that configures a 
program so it runs in an environment similar to non-Windows XP operating 
system environments.
1 Click the Start button, point to All Programs→ Accessories, and then click 
Program Compatibility Wizard.
2 In the welcome screen, click Next.
3 Follow the instructions on the screen.