How to restore CS interface after latest Windows 10 update

[Dave3721]

After the latest Windows 10 update my Illustrator CS interface was crippled: text was missing or oversized in the command windows, and some command windows (ex: Effect->Path->Offset path...) appeared as very tall, narrow bands or very wide, short bands. Rollover "tips" were compressed into tall, vertical black lines. Commands appear to work well, and the "Open", "Save". and similar windows display and function correctly.

What's causing this? How do I restore my interface?

[Bill Silbert]

Try restoring your Illustrator preferences.

To do so:

Hold down Ctrl + Alt + Shift when launching Illustrator and respond affirmatively when asked if you want to reset.

[Dave3721]

After backing up my settings (glad I did!) I said "Yes" to the question "Do you want to delete the Adobe Illustrator Settings folder?" The settings were reset but the original problem persisted.

[Bill Silbert]

Are you using the latest version of Illustrator? If not, it could be helpful to update to CC 2017.

[Dave3721]

I'm using CS, the last version I could afford. Adobe upgraded me to Photoshop CS2 when I upgraded to Windows 10, but that had to do with authorization issues; that works fine. I'm really hoping I haven't lost Illustrator compatibility for good.

[Bill Silbert]

Unfortunately, that version is so old that is most likely the cause of your problem.

[Test Screen Name · Accepted solution]

I think downgrading your system may be the way to get back compatibility. If you want to freeze your apps in time you also need to freeze your other stuff. It was an excellent system and app when released and still is - so long as you don't also try to run today's apps and devices.

[Dave3721]

In tinkering around I found that if I open Photoshop (CS2) first, then Illustrator (CS), the symptoms go away, even if I then close Photoshop. I suppose I can just do this when I want to use Illustrator, but I'd prefer not to. Any thoughts?

[Monika Gause]

The apps are too old for the system. So you might just call yourself lucky that it runs at all.