Test the 32-bit environment
- Identify executable and every in-process dependency architecture.
- Use 32-bit COM registration and registry view.
- Configure 32-bit ODBC DSNs and providers.
- Check filesystem/registry redirection and protected-path writes.
- Test UAC and standard-user permissions.
- Separate user-mode dependencies from obsolete kernel drivers or hardware.
Contain hard dependencies
A compatibility setting cannot make a 16-bit installer or unsupported driver into a 64-bit component. Repackage known files, replace one provider/device boundary, or isolate the old OS when justified and secured.
Use dependency analysis, ODBC troubleshooting, 16-bit replacement and the pillar.