Why 2 sets of Program Files?

When I open my hard drive there are two sets of Program Files, PROGRAM FILES and PROGRAM FILES (X86). There are a few duplicate entries, but they have different created dates.
PROGRAM FILES has 24 folders, PROGRAM FILES (X86) has 42 folders.
What is going on?
Here is a screen shot of both.
http://www.pbase.com/dickh/image/126318244.jpg

64 bit system.

Program files are 64 bit

Program files (x86) are 32 bit

It's funny how this puts so many into a panic. It's been that way through Vista's release almost four years ago, and is perfectly normal. When you go to install software, the system will choose one of the two based on the app being installed. Let the default path be used, and you'll be fine.

DeaconFrost said:

It's funny how this puts so many into a panic. It's been that way through Vista's release almost four years ago, and is perfectly normal. When you go to install software, the system will choose one of the two based on the app being installed. Let the default path be used, and you'll be fine.

Thanks for the info. Very confusing since I never had VISTA (thank God!). :)

Dick H said:

Very confusing since I never had VISTA (thank God!). :)

I honestly can't remember if XP x64 did this or not. It's been a long time since I ran that OS. Since you have Windows 7 now, you aren't missing anything from the Vista era anyway.

To the best my little brain can remember windows 7/64 has 32 and 64. I will shift back and forth when need be all by itself. There is nothing to worry about.