Microsoft Access 97 Portable
Enable Windows Features → "Legacy Components" → "DirectPlay" and install the Microsoft Jet 3.5 Redistributable (available from Microsoft's old download center). Without these, even portable files will crash.
While Access 97 was built for Windows 95 and NT 4.0, it is surprisingly resilient. If you are using a portable version or the original media on a modern machine, you may need to apply specific tweaks: Can you install and use Office 97 on a Windows 10 computer? microsoft access 97 portable
Do you still use Access 97 in your workflow? Have you successfully created a portable version? Share your legacy database stories in the comments below. microsoft access 97 portable