Programs Files vs Program files (x86)

Anonymous
2010-03-21T08:36:50+00:00

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.

Windows for home | Previous Windows versions | Files, folders, and storage

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Anonymous
2010-03-22T01:45:18+00:00

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

Visit our Microsoft Answers Feedback Forum and let us know what you think.

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  1. Anonymous
    2011-10-18T16:22:28+00:00

    Yo guys i just installed win 7 x64 and I was wondering...Does it really matter where will I install some programs,i mean in whic Program files?How can I know which programs are for x64?And if I install a program in x64 Program files if it doesn't work it means i have to install it in x386 Program files?

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  2. Anonymous
    2012-01-17T18:18:19+00:00

    So is there any difference if a 64bit program automaticaly install itself on to x86 folder, I mean will the speed of the program will be diferent form running in normal program files. O and if my laptop is 64bit with 64 bit win7 will the aplications or programms that are marked on the downloadable setup 32bit/64bit install in 32bit mode or 64bit mode and if it installs in 32bit so how can I change it to install in 64bit? 

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  3. Anonymous
    2012-01-19T20:37:33+00:00

    Hey nifeforever,

    Because this thread was started by another person and because of the threads age, I suggest you follow the link below to start your own thread. 

    Asking your own question helps the community help you specifically with your issue. Remember to include all the details (your version of windows, specs of your system, any error codes etc...) that you can when you start your own thread. 

    New Thread Link

    Thank you!

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