Hello,
On my Windows 10, 64 bit laptop, I noticed in the C: folder that there are two folders: Program Files, and Program Files (x86).
What are the differences between Program Files, and Program Files (x86) ?
Thank you
The regular Program Files folder holds 64-bit applications, while "Program Files (x86)" is used for 32-bit applications.
More info: What’s the Difference Between the “Program Files (x86)” and “Program Files” Folders in Windows?
That's all correct. But I wonder ... why did Microsoft need to create two folders?
There's nothing about the x86 folder that would prevent a 64-bit program from being installed there.
It's like re-organizing my pantry ... keeping the Kellogg's cereals on a different shelf from the Post cereals, as if they could not share the same shelf!
Correct there is no difference in the actual folder itself.
But we can install the same application as a 32 bit and 64 bit version some already do that normally, so how do you then differentiate that?
It's quirky but a really simple method of doing it.
This is why the OS creates the 2 folders.
It's more for your information than anything MS actually requires. A 32 or 64 bit app doesn't care, it will run from whichever it is installed in. By default a 32 bit app's installer will put its app in the (x86) folder but that's only the default, you are free to put it elsewhere if you like.
It's been that way quite awhile but looking ahead now that Win11 does not support x86/32-bit computers I foresee the 32-bit programs will be fading away, 16-bit pretty much already has. And if the 32-bit want to still be around it will be up to their programmers to make it happen. Kinda sounds like planned obsolescence but if they are not selling there's no money for programmers to do their thing.
Microsoft has not said anything about dropping support for 32-bit programs even for Windows 11. I agree that may some day change but not anytime soon.
Overview of the compatibility considerations for 32-bit programs on 64-bit versions of WindowsThe 64-bit versions of Windows use the Microsoft Windows-32-on-Windows-64 (WOW64) subsystem to run 32-bit programs without modifications. The 64-bit versions of Windows don't provide support for 16-bit binaries or 32-bit drivers.
WOW64 has been included in all 64-bit versions of Windows starting with Windows XP Professional x64 up to and including Windows 11.
https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/tro...-64-bit-system
WOW64 Implementation Details
https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/win...tation-details
WoW64
WoW64 - Wikipedia
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