[Shark007]

The following is a grab from a google search.

To choose a GPU for an application on Windows, you can use the Graphics settings:
Search for Graphics settings in the Windows search bar
Select the application you want to configure from the drop-down menu
If the application isn't listed, click Browse to select it
Choose the preferred graphics processor
Click Save

When I said I have seen this issue before; its been years and I do not specifically remember how I solved it.
Sorry for all the trial and error you're experiencing.

[mashakos]

The following is a grab from a google search.

To choose a GPU for an application on Windows, you can use the Graphics settings:
Search for Graphics settings in the Windows search bar
Select the application you want to configure from the drop-down menu
If the application isn't listed, click Browse to select it
Choose the preferred graphics processor
Click Save

When I said I have seen this issue before; its been years and I do not specifically remember how I solved it.
Sorry for all the trial and error you're experiencing.

I have the iGPU disabled in the BIOS. Does shark007 require dependencies that I need to update maybe, vc++ runtime..?

and thank you for putting up with me

[Shark007]

You've been using my software for a long time and nothing in the GUI has changed recently.
I wonder if this is simply an Nvidia driver issue.

[mashakos]

I will try diagnostic startup, might be some utility I have on my end thats doing this.
EDIT: Just checked event viewer and I'm getting access denied errors every time I run the settings app. In safe mode it opens fine. I have the folder excluded in windows defender, trying to think what could be blocking it
EDIT2: Tried running just on the iGPU (set to iGPU in the bios) to rule out nvidia drivers, no luck. The access denied error actually occurs after I exit out of the settings application

[mashakos]

Trying random things, I enabled win7 compatibility mode and it the GUI showed up! is it safe to leave it at win7 compatibility, or would that screw with the application?

[Shark007]

Yes, using compatibility mode is safe and will not cause you any issues.

[mashakos]

Yes, using compatibility mode is safe and will not cause you any issues.

 good to know, thanks!
Wish I knew what is causing this on my end, but at least I can use the app while pondering this question lol