Fix: This is due to a known Windows update (KBxxxxxx). Apply the VB6 portable compatibility patch:

Even a portable version can face problems on modern Windows.

If the portable route seems too complex or risky, consider these alternatives:

If you have access to a licensed VB6 installation, you can create your own portable version without downloading shady repacks.

No. VB6 always generates 32-bit executables. Those run fine on 64-bit Windows via WOW64.

This process is advanced, but resulting in a clean, legal, custom portable VB6.

The official VB6 installer often fails on 64-bit systems. Portable versions are pre-configured with the necessary DLLs and compatibility settings (e.g., Windows XP SP3 mode).

Fix: Run the register_controls.bat file included in most repacks. If missing, manually open Command Prompt in the portable folder and run:

regsvr32 mscomctl.ocx

(Yes, this writes to registry – it’s the only exception. But you can unregister later with regsvr32 /u.)