Run programs with a custom date and time using RunAsDate
This is a simple yet handy Windows tool that lets you “bend time” and launch a program as if it were opened on a different date or time. It can be useful in many situations, such as testing, troubleshooting, or when an app has functionality that only works on specific days.
Features and use cases
The app doesn’t change your PC’s system clock—instead, it injects a virtual date and time directly into the program you choose to launch. You can freely set both date and time and add extra parameters if needed. Everything happens from a simple interface where you just select an .exe, enter the timestamp, and click “Run.”
The program can also create desktop shortcuts so the chosen app always starts with the defined time. This is especially useful for developers and testers who need to repeat scenarios with specific timestamps.
32-bit and 64-bit versions
RunAsDate comes in both 32-bit and 64-bit builds, and it’s important to choose the version that matches the app you want to launch—not necessarily your Windows version. If you want to use the tool with a 64-bit program, use RunAsDate 64-bit.
Both versions are included in the ZIP you download above.
Portable and no installation
The program requires no installation. Just download the version you need and run it directly—ideal for USB drives or systems where you don’t have admin rights.
Limitations and ethical use
It’s important to note that RunAsDate should not be used to bypass software trial periods—and many modern programs include protections that will ignore date changes made with RunAsDate anyway. The tool is intended for legitimate uses such as debugging, automation, and development.
Top 5 tips for RunAsDate
Use the correct build (32/64-bit)
Always match the RunAsDate build to the app you want to launch—not necessarily your Windows version. Many users run 64-bit Windows but still use 32-bit apps. If you try to launch a 64-bit app with the 32-bit version of RunAsDate, it will fail without a clear error message. You can check whether an app is 32- or 64-bit in Windows Task Manager or with tools like Process Explorer.
Create desktop shortcuts
RunAsDate lets you create shortcuts directly from the app, predefining both the app path and the desired date and time. That means you can launch, for example, a test tool with a predefined “fake” time with a single click from the desktop. It saves time, especially if you reuse the same settings multiple times a day.
Avoid system conflicts
A major advantage of RunAsDate is that the system clock is not changed. This helps you avoid issues with Windows processes, networked apps, online sync, and software licenses. It’s much safer than tools that temporarily change the entire system time.
Use for troubleshooting
If you work with apps that behave differently depending on the date (e.g., scheduling software, log files, or license-dependent features), RunAsDate can be indispensable. You can reproduce bugs that occurred on a specific date or time, allowing you to analyze and fix issues in development or support.
Combine with automation
RunAsDate integrates cleanly with batch files, scheduled tasks, or development environments. For example, you can set up a task that launches an app with a specific date every time you sign in—ideal for testing, report generation, or simulations. Combine it with Windows Task Scheduler or PowerShell scripts to fully automate workflows.
