Getting "This app can't run on this device" Error from Trend Micro

LAST UPDATED: DEC 12, 2022

You see this pop up on your computer after upgrading your Windows computer to the latest version:

"This app can't run on this device"

Why did this happen?

• There is a driver compatibility issue of old Trend Micro programs with your newly upgraded Windows computer.
• The issue may happen with an ARM-based processor.

What should I do next?

Follow the steps below to fix the error message and to successfully install Trend Micro Security on your Windows computer.

For ARM-Based Processor

Check if your device has an ARM-based processor with these steps. Skip this if you're sure it isn't ARM-based:

1. Open Settings of your device.
2. Go to System, and click About.
3. Under Device specifications, look for the System type. It will tell you if your processor is ARM-based.
4. If you have an ARM-based processor, download Trend Micro directly from your Trend Micro account:
1. Go to account.trendmicro.com.
2. Click Sign in.
3. Enter Email address or mobile phone number. Click Next and enter your password.
4. Click Next (if prompted, complete the two-factor authentication).
5. Go to the Download tab and download Trend Micro.

If your processor isn't ARM-based, follow these steps:

1. Disable Program Compatibility Assistant.
1. Click the Start button (Windows Icon), search for services.msc.
2. Look for the Program Compatibility Assistant on the list.
3. Right-click on it then select Properties.
4. Lastly, on the startup type, select Disable.


2. Run Hidden Admin.
1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Type net user administrator /active:yes.
3. Tap Start button and Tap your Profile or Accounts, then tap Admin.
4. Download Trend Micro Security from this link - trendmicro.com/quick.
5. Go back to Command Prompt and type net user administrator /active:no.

See also

• Reasons an App Might Not Run on a Device
• Upgrade Trend Micro Antivirus on Windows