How to Fix BlueStacks ‘Incompatible Windows Settings’ Error

Multiple Windows 11 users have reported encountering an ‘Incompatible Windows Settings’ error while using the BlueStacks emulator. This issue appears only when starting the BlueStacks emulator on Windows 11, providing an option to read the FAQ page. This article offers potential solutions to resolve the error.

Key Thing to Note

Before proceeding with the troubleshooting steps, it’s crucial to note that BlueStacks 5 Nougat 32-bit instances do not support Hyper-V. Users who have downloaded the BlueStacks 5 (32-bit) variant will need to disable Hyper-V to resolve the ‘Incompatible Windows Settings’ error. Alternatively, users can download the BlueStacks 64-bit version and run it as an administrator, even with Hyper-V enabled.

1. Disable Hyper-V on your Windows 11

The ‘Incompatible Windows Settings’ error often appears when installing BlueStacks 5 32-bit on a machine where Hyper-V is enabled. Users can attempt to disable Hyper-V and then run the BlueStacks 32-bit emulator following these steps:

1. Click the Windows 11 search bar and type Turn Windows Features on or off. Open the most relevant result from the list.
2. Scroll down and expand the Hyper-V option.
3. Uncheck Hyper-V, Hyper-V Management tools, and Hyper-V Platform.
4. Click OK and restart your computer.

2. Disable Windows Sandbox & Subsystem for Linux

In addition to disabling Hyper-V, users should disable the Windows Sandbox and Windows Subsystem for Linux via the Windows Features menu. This can help resolve the ‘Incompatible Windows Settings’ error:

1. Open Windows search, type Windows Features, and then open the Turn Windows features on or off app.
2. Uncheck Windows Sandbox and Windows Subsystem for Linux.

3. Run BlueStacks as an administrator

Many users have reported that running BlueStacks as an administrator resolves the ‘Incompatible Windows Settings’ error. Users can right-click the BlueStacks app and select Run as administrator.

4. Install the 32-bit BlueStacks

If users are using the BlueStacks 64-bit version but Hyper-V is disabled, they should install the 32-bit BlueStacks instead. Users can download the BlueStacks 32-bit version from the official website and then uninstall and reinstall the app.

5. Download and run the customexe file from BlueStacks

Users can download a custom.exe file from BlueStacks that disables Hyper-V and removes its traces. Running this file can help resolve the error (but should not be used with the BlueStacks 64-bit version).

6. Reach out to the BlueStacks Support Team

Users who cannot resolve the issue on their own can contact the BlueStacks support team for assistance. They can send an email to “[email protected]” or create a post on the “/r/BlueStacks/”” subreddit.

What This Means for You

• You can now troubleshoot and resolve the ‘Incompatible Windows Settings’ error while using BlueStacks on Windows 11.
• By following these guides, you can ensure that your BlueStacks emulator runs smoothly without encountering the error message.
• As BlueStacks continues to update its software, new issues may arise. Stay informed of updates and solutions by following the BlueStacks support team and subreddit.

Key Terms

• BlueStacks, Windows 11, Hyper-V, Incompatible Windows Settings error, Windows Sandbox, Subsystem for Linux, customexe file