Starting with Windows 10 (version 1709 and later) and continuing aggressively into Windows 11, Microsoft enforced . This means Windows will refuse to load any driver not digitally signed by Microsoft. The official BMW Scanner 1.4 drivers (PA Soft 1.4) were signed in the early 2000s with SHA-1 certificates. These certificates are now considered insecure and are blocked by Windows 11.
If you already own an old FTDI-based cable, learn the ritual. It adds 60 seconds to your diagnostic routine, but it keeps a legendary tool alive. bmw scanner 1.4 windows 11