How to Run an EXE File During a PowerPoint Slideshow
Question details
The user needs to execute an external application (.exe file) directly from a slide while running a PowerPoint presentation.
- Product
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- Delivering a presentation where launching a live demonstration or external application seamlessly from a slide is required.
- Observed behavior
- The 'Run Program' action may be unavailable or disabled by default in newer versions of PowerPoint due to Microsoft security settings.
Verify that the EXE file you intend to run is safe and from a trusted source, as running external executables can pose security risks. If you need to modify the Windows Registry to re-enable this feature, create a Registry backup first.
Use Action Settings to Run the Program
Insert an interactive shape on your slide and link it to your executable file using PowerPoint's built-in Action Settings.
If your version of PowerPoint still has the feature enabled, you can easily trigger external programs using Action Buttons.
Go to the 'Insert' tab on the ribbon, click on 'Shapes', and draw a shape on your slide to act as a clickable button.
Click to select the shape you just inserted, navigate back to the 'Insert' tab, and click on 'Action' in the Links group.
In the Action Settings dialog box, under the 'Mouse Click' tab, select the 'Run program' option. Click 'Browse' to locate and select your target EXE file, then click 'OK'.
Press F5 to start your slideshow and click the shape to verify that the external program launches successfully.
Re-enable the 'Run Program' Action via Windows Registry
If the 'Run Program' option is disabled in your PowerPoint Action Settings, you must manually re-enable it using the Registry Editor.
Try WPS Office for a Seamless Presentation Experience
If troubleshooting PowerPoint's security restrictions and registry modifications is slowing down your workflow, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, highly compatible alternative for creating, managing, and delivering impactful presentations.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the free download button for your operating system.
- 2. Install the software: Run the downloaded installer and follow the simple on-screen instructions to set up WPS Office on your computer.
- 3. Open your presentation: Launch WPS Presentation and open your existing PowerPoint files to enjoy a smooth and highly compatible slideshow experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the 'Run program' option greyed out in PowerPoint?
Microsoft disabled the 'Run program' action by default in recent Office updates to prevent malicious files from being executed automatically during a presentation. You must use the Windows Registry Editor to manually re-enable it.
Can I run a batch file (.bat) instead of an .exe?
Yes, the 'Run program' action supports various executable file types, including .bat and .cmd files. You can select them by changing the file type filter to 'All Files' when browsing for your program in the Action Settings.
Will the EXE file run on another computer if I share the presentation?
No, the action button relies on the absolute file path on your local computer. If you move the presentation to another computer, the target EXE file must be in the exact same directory structure, or you will need to update the file path in the Action Settings.
Is there a safer alternative to using the 'Run program' feature?
You can create a standard Hyperlink to the file (Insert > Hyperlink) instead of using the Action settings. When clicked during the slideshow, Windows will prompt a security warning, but it will still allow you to open the executable file without needing registry edits.
