Running 64-bit apps in Windows 7

I hope this isn't an especially 'dumb' question. I just upgraded to Win7, and I installed the 64-bit version. This is my first time using a 64-bit OS. My question is this: I've installed a few programs that are made for a 64-bit OS (like Cubase, and After Effects CS4), but Windows installed them into the 'Programs Files (x86)' directory instead of the 'Program Files' directory. I had the task manager open a while ago, while I was running After Effects, and noticed that it's logged as "AfterEffects.exe*32", which seems to indicate that Windows is running it as a 32-bit app. Is that, in fact, what's happening? Do I need to uninstall and reinstall it into the 'Program Files' directory in order to get Windows to run it as a 64-bit app?


I apologize if this is a really obvious thing- like I said, I'm new. Thanks in advance for your help!

MadSammyboy welcome to the forums.

Not a dumb question, and no it doesn't matter which of those folder a program is installed to. They are just folders and named as such to make it easier to know which are 32 bit and 64 bit programs. They have no affect on how the program runs.

From the sounds of the one program, it sounds like you installed the 32 bit version instead of the 64 bit one. Either that or it isn't a true 64 bit program.

As for where they install, that depends entirely on the installer. If it is a 32 bit installer or it wasn't coded to put it in the Program Files folder on 64 bit Windows it will default to the Program Files (x86) folder, which again will have no affect on whether the program runs 32 bit or 64 bit.

Dont get confused by "runs on 64-bit windows" and "native 64-bit". First instance can mean both 32-bit and 64-bit. Second instance means that it was compiled as a 64-bit program.

Some program installers can detect which version of windows you are using and install the relevant version of the program into the right program files folder. But the majority give you either a 32-bit or 64-bit setup file to download.

stormy13 and swarfega, thanks so much for your responses to my question! (thanks also for the welcome to the forum) This helps out, and even though I should have already known this, it helps to hear it from some folks who actually know what they're talking about!

I also appreciate the insight regarding the difference between native 64-bit apps, and those that can run on a 64-bit OS without being made specifically for it.

Y'all are the best!