Programs Files vs Program files (x86)

Anonymous

What is the difference between the "Program Files" folder & the "Program Files (x86)" folder, in C Drive? Various programs seem split almost equally between the 2, after I upgraded from Vista to 7, except that Internet Explorer is in both, meaning that when I "Open with" for a text file I get IE listed twice.

Can I move everything to one or other of these & delete the other one? Is one for 64-bit and one for 32-bit programs or something like that?

Thanks very much!

Milton.

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Anonymous

Hi Milton,

Yes, the two ‘Program File’ folders that are listed are for 32 bit and 64 bit version of Windows 7. The folder with (x86) is for 32 bit version.

For more information follow the link given below

32-bit and 64-bit Windows: frequently asked questions

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows7/32-bit-and-64-bit-Windows-frequently-asked-questions

You may also check the link given below for further clarification.

http://social.technet.microsoft.com/Forums/en/w7itprogeneral/thread/7373ff3e-0207-4774-b042-c1324e70f1e5

Hope this information is helpful.

Amrita M

Microsoft Answers Support Engineer

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67 additional answers

Anonymous

2011-05-09T08:52:47+00:00

Hi Amrita

We using the program with .Net frame work and SYS TEC electronic GmbH V4.00 program, kindly advice where to instal this programmes (program File or program File(x86))
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Anonymous

2011-10-04T04:27:38+00:00

I down graded back to vista ultimate 32 bit from 7 starter and have 2 Program file folders!!! this seems useless and redundant!!! I only need one program files folder in Vista Ulta. 32, Correct?
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Anonymous

2011-10-13T05:36:27+00:00

Hello guys, I have a question related to this subject...

Do I have to keep the "Program Files (x86)" folder or can I move everything in that folder to the "Program Files" folder?

Thank you ahead of time!

Jimmy
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5 people found this answer helpful.

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