windows.old and program files x86

I just did a clean install of w7 ultimate 64bit over my previous vista 32bit and my primary hard drive is loaded up with old folders and things. The biggest it seems is windows.old and Program Files x86. I am thinking about deleting the x86 p-files because its now running a 64 bit OS and i dont believe it'll run the 32 bit ones or atleast i wont need them, also would i need the windows.old because again its a different .bit operating system?

thanks

Zach1928, welcome to the forums.

The windows.old folder can safely be deleted,

Windows.old Folder - Delete

might want to go through it just in case you missed backing up anything before deleting it.

As for the Program Files (x86) folder, delete that and you're looking at repairing or re-install Windows. That is where 32 bit programs get installed as well as any and all 32 bit Windows components, including 32 bit version Internet Explorer. The Program Files folder is for 64 bit applications. The reason for the two of them is to separate the 32 bit from the 64 bit programs.

Same thing goes for the System32 folder and the SysWOW64 folder. Despite its name the System32 folder is where the 64 bit system files are to be found, and the SysWOW64 folder is where the 32 bit versions are.