Cannot Start a Windows-Based Program from MS-DOS Prompt

ID: Q134489

The information in this article applies to:
  • Microsoft Windows 95

SYMPTOMS

When you try to start a Windows-based program from an MS-DOS prompt by typing 


   START <winapp>

   -or-

   <winapp>
where <winapp> is the name of the program, the program does not run, and you receive the following error message:
This program cannot be run in DOS mode.


CAUSE

The MS-DOS window is configured to prevent MS-DOS based programs from detecting Windows.


RESOLUTION

Change the configuration of the MS-DOS window. To change the configuration, follow these steps:

  1. Start MS-DOS Prompt.


  2. In the MS-DOS Prompt dialog box, click the Properties button.


  3. In the MS-DOS Prompt Properties dialog box, click the Program tab, and then click the Advanced button.


  4. In the Advanced Program Settings dialog box, make sure the "Prevent MS-DOS-based programs from detecting Windows" box is not checked, and then click the OK button.


  5. Quit MS-DOS, and then restart it.


Additional query words: start begin box execute

Keywords : win95 appscomp posfest
Version : 95
Platform : WINDOWS
Issue type :


Last Reviewed: June 16, 1999
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