Compatibility assessment
- Preserve BDE installer/configuration, aliases, language drivers and NET DIR.
- Check 32-bit registry/configuration views and protected-directory writes.
- Verify Paradox private/lock directories and share permissions.
- Test native SQL clients, ODBC drivers and application workflows.
- Rebuild deployment on a clean test PC instead of copying one installation.
Compatibility mode cannot repair damaged tables or replace unavailable database clients. Isolation/VM may be safer for a stable application with fragile dependencies, but hardware and network behavior still require tests.
Plan beyond compatibility
Use Delphi BDE migration for source-level data-access change, BDE database migration for the data estate and Paradox recovery for damaged tables. The Delphi pillar covers support decisions.
Provide application/BDE installers, alias export, complete data set, Windows targets and concurrent-user requirements.