32 bit software on a 64 bit win7 program. Possible?

[jazzpicker]

I'm sure this issue has been addressed before but I am unable to find it on search.

I have a 32 bit Spanish dictionary that I would love to install on my 64 bit computer.
I've googled the issue and searched this forum but can't find an answer. I would appreciate any work around or help to install this program.

 

[Darician]

Well, when you attempt to install, what errors do you get (if any)? Additionally, what's the name of the program?

 

[DirtRider]

Most programs designed for the 32-bit version of Windows will work on the 64-bit version of Windows. Notable exceptions are many antivirus programs.

 

[Wishmaster]

Just to clarify:
Are you having issues installing the program, or asking if a 32bit app will work in a 64bit enviroment?

The large majority of programs/applications are 32 bit. The 64bit OS however, should have no issues at all running a 32bit application, as it is backwards compatable.


The exception may be with older software.

What you can try:
1) Installing the program in compatibility mode for Windows Vista
(or in some cases, Compatibility Mode for Windows XP)

2) Also, run the the installer as Administrator.


In case you may be unsure how to do this:
1) If the program is from a CD, browse your CD and look for the Setup.exe
If it is a Folder or executable file, the same steps will apply for the executable.
2) Right click it and choose the Compitability tab.
3) Check the box run this Program in Compatibility mode for (and choose Vista or XP)
4) Then, check the box run as Administrator.

Now run the setup or install executable file and see if this helps get it installed.

 

[Phone Man]

A lot of 32bit programs will run just fine on Win 7 64bit. If you will look on your Windows 7 disk drive you will see two folders.
Program Files - this is where 64bit programs are installed.
Program Files (x86) - this is where 32bit programs are installed.
There are some programs that will not run under Windows 7 and have to use Compatibility Mode. Try installing your program and if you have trouble, post back for help on installing in Compatibility Mode.

Jim

 

[Dzomlija]

Something that also needs to be mentioned.

While it is true that most 32-bit programs will work on 64-bit Windows, it also largely depends on the age of the software, and how the program is installed. If it uses a 16-bit installer program, then the only viable alternative would be to get an updated installer (from the manufacturer of the software), because Windows 64 bit no longer supports the execution of 16-bit programs.

One workaround would be to install Windows XP Mode (On Windows 7 Pro, Enterprise or Ultimate), and then install the program into the Virtual XP, and add a shortcut to the XP "All Users" entry in the Start Menu.

Other than getting an updated version, this is the only other way to get some really old software to work on Windows 65-Bit.

 

[jazzpicker]

Thanks for all the suggestions.

I am trying to install the Oxford Spanish dictionary on my 64 bit ASUS mobo using all the above suggestions except for the following workaround (which I don't understand) "One workaround would be to install Windows XP Mode (On Windows 7 Pro, Enterprise or Ultimate), and then install the program into the Virtual XP, and add a shortcut to the XP "All Users" entry in the Start Menu"

I tried installing the program using the compatibly mode without success. I was able to easily install the program on a 32 bit laptop.

The unsuccessful installations gave the following message.

"The version of this file is not compatible with the version of windows you're running. Check your computer's information to see whether you need an x86(32bit) or x64 (64 bit version of the program and contact the software publisher."

 

[Dzomlija]

Thanks for all the suggestions.

I am trying to install the Oxford Spanish dictionary on my 64 bit ASUS mobo using all the above suggestions except for the following workaround (which I don't understand) "One workaround would be to install Windows XP Mode (On Windows 7 Pro, Enterprise or Ultimate), and then install the program into the Virtual XP, and add a shortcut to the XP "All Users" entry in the Start Menu"

I tried installing the program using the compatibly mode without success. I was able to easily install the program on a 32 bit laptop.

The unsuccessful installations gave the following message.

"The version of this file is not compatible with the version of windows you're running. Check your computer's information to see whether you need an x86(32bit) or x64 (64 bit version of the program and contact the software publisher."

That particular error message you're getting is what happens when the program is 32-bit, but it is using a 16-bit installer. As I mentioned earlier, Windows 64 bit does not support 16-bit programs. No amount of tweaking with the standard compatibility settings will change that.

Maybe Microsoft will somday make an update that will have such programs automatically install into XP Mode?

As for Windows XP Mode, try this tutorial: How to Install and Setup Windows XP Mode in Windows 7. Once you have XP mode installed, post back and I'll walk you through getting you program installed, and how to use it "natively" within Windows 7 64-Bit...