64 bit programs versus for 64 Bit Windows

Being a newbie to 64 bit software requirements, I have a few simple question.
Many programs that I use and programs I've tried and they failed, I always choose the version for 64 Bit Windows 7. As they install, I can see that they are being put in the Programs File (x86). This I thought meant 32 bit programs. I know that W7 has a capability to run some 32 Bit programs automatically. Optionally you can change the compatibility for each program for a previous operating system.
My question is I guess is why these x86 programs are consider the correct version for W7? Secondly, briefly how is Windows 7 automatically handling them? Thirdly is it better to let W7 auto handle or set the compatibility to say XP Pro 32 bit?
Recently, forum members guided me through the removal of leftover processes, which IIRC Revo Uninstaller Free did not list, because the program was 64 Bit and thus could not delete what it didn't show installed. IObit was impressive as it let you put a specific searched executable for forced uninstall. It too failed to completely remove all items. Finally I downloaded Trial Revo Pro which is designed to see (and did), all the 64 bit programs. It then handled them (fingers crossed) as well or better than Revo free does on 32 bit programs.
Hopefully someone with the time and patience can give a brief description on the reasons and answers to the above.
Trying to learn! Thanks for any assistance.
glennc

It's been brought up quite a bit on here recently, so I guess you aren't alone. Anyway, you seem to be confusing a 64 bit application with a 64 bit compatible application. Just because it runs on Windows x64, doesn't mean the actual executable file is a 64 bit app. That's why you have the two program files directories. That separates the compatible apps form the native apps. You seem to be worrying about something that doesn't warrant the concern. If the application in general is compatible, let it go to whichever program files directory it chooses. Let me give you an example. iTunes has a download for x86 or x64 Windows. If you choose the x64 version, it will install to the Program Files (x86) directory, because the actual program file is an x86 app....it just means that the version I downloaded is compatible with the Windows x64 OS.

There isn't really anything to worry about or learn. You know you have an x64 OS, so use the apps that are compatible with that platform, and let them install where they may.

Dzomlija said:

glennc said:

Many programs that I use and programs I've tried and they failed, I always choose the version for 64 Bit Windows 7. As they install, I can see that they are being put in the Programs File (x86). This I thought meant 32 bit programs. I know that W7 has a capability to run some 32 Bit programs automatically. Optionally you can change the compatibility for each program for a previous operating system.

These programs that you mention, are they 64-Bit Compatible, or true 64-Bit? Because if they install to the "C:\Program Files (x86)" folder, then they are 32-bit, as you have rightfully surmised. Perhaps it's because when the software manufacturer says 64-Bit, they mean that it will work on Windows x64.

And no, you don't have to set any compatibility options to get 32-bit programs to work on Windows x64. Most 32-bit programs should run without any problems on 64-bit Windows. The Compatibility options that Windows provides are for the older programs that do not transplant properly to the new environment of Windows 7 (whether it's 32-Bit or 64-Bit).

Howdy Dzomlija,
Your explanation was pretty much what I guessed. So thanks for the confirmation. A concern I mentioned was Revo Free, it is compatible yet is not in my limited experience adequately compatible. Revo Pro is specific and works apparently absolutely correctly. So the train of thought is, how compatible are the compatible programs. When true 64-bit versions come out, I believe they will be truly compatible. I could be wrong!
glennc

DeaconFrost said:

It's been brought up quite a bit on here recently, so I guess you aren't alone. Anyway, you seem to be confusing a 64 bit application with a 64 bit compatible application. Just because it runs on Windows x64, doesn't mean the actual executable file is a 64 bit app. That's why you have the two program files directories. That separates the compatible apps form the native apps. You seem to be worrying about something that doesn't warrant the concern. If the application in general is compatible, let it go to whichever program files directory it chooses. Let me give you an example. iTunes has a download for x86 or x64 Windows. If you choose the x64 version, it will install to the Program Files (x86) directory, because the actual program file is an x86 app....it just means that the version I downloaded is compatible with the Windows x64 OS.

There isn't really anything to worry about or learn. You know you have an x64 OS, so use the apps that are compatible with that platform, and let them install where they may.

Hey, Hey DeaconFrost,
With your's and the above explanation, I have a less muddled understanding. But the issue I mentioned in the post by Dzomlija, does still concern me. I know I have no other choice so why worry. It is because I've reinstalled and re System Imaged so many times with compatible programs. But it is a learning experience, in compatibility and patience.
Don't believe without your and the other member's I would have lasted this long.
Thanks DF,
glennc

glennc said:

So the train of thought is, how compatible are the compatible programs. When true 64-bit versions come out, I believe they will be truly compatible. I could be wrong!
glennc

If something is compatible, you should expect it to work as planned. For example, Office 2007 is compatible (yet not an x64 app) and it works perfectly fine on any x64 OS. What you mentioned is a system utility that works questionable regardless of the OS. I see people in love with REVO, but it has never worked reliably for me at all, regardless of the OS in question. I uninstall the app, clean it up with CCleaner, and be done with it.

As for your worries, just stick to using apps that list Windows 7 x64 in their requirements. Some of us run secondary systems or VMs to test these apps, but if you stick to something common and popular, you should be fine.

Howdy DeaconFrost,
In the particular case I mentioned Windows uninstaller, was useless as has always been my experience. Revo Free which while not perfect goes a lot deeper and easier to understand as it shows the leftovers. In trying to delete SuperAntispyware neither of those products worked. I reinstalled SAS each time to give the program a full chance to uninstall. One program IObit uninstaller which I am completely unfamiliar with, had an option to let you browse your folders and locate and specify the program you want uninstalled. Still not effective. Downloaded Revo Pro which is a 64 bit program and it located SAS and cleaned it off, and did away with the original problem. Did it get everything, I can't tell. CCleaner has always been a favorite but since it is 64 bit compatible it does not from what I've read do the usually great job on 64 Bit programs. YMMV. Thanks agin there dude!
glennc