programs stop working in vista

I've been getting errors when I try to open programs that says "program has stopped working ...windows will try to find a solution and advise.

How can I fix this?

Which program you are trying to open while you are getting the error specified above? Still if you are looking to work with the issue then you should go with the below given step that will help you with the same. Just follow the instruction and let me know whether this is working for you or not.

• Click On Start Menu
• Click On All Programs
• Right click on the application
• Select Properties
• Click on the Compatibility tab
• Check the "Run in compability mode for:"
• Select XP SP 2 from the dropdown
• Click "Apply"
• Click "OK"
• Start the application

I looked at that but I'm running Vista.....does that affect anything?

No, Following these step will not affect any of file on your system. But as i asked you what program you are trying to run while getting the error. This will help me to find proper solution for your issue. Anyways follow the instruction given above and do let me know whether this is working with the issue of yours or not.

I've clicked on Microsoft Office and properties, but, I do not see anything there about making it compatible.

What am I doing wrong?

Are you logged in as administrator? What I have heard is that this error is cause by using BitDefender anti-virus V10. And for that the recommended solution is to rename sockspy.dll to sockspy.dl_ and that might fix the problem for you. Or you can even try to uninstall the BitDefender anti-virus and check whether you are facing the same problem or not.