Can you run 32 bit programs on 64 bit Windows 7?

A simple question: Can you run 32-bit programs on a 64-bit Windows 7? If you don’t know weather you’re on a 32-bit or 64-bit Windows 7, you should read this.

The answer is yes. Windows 7 64-bit supports almost all 32-bit applications. 64-bit systems emulate 32-bit applications, so all 32-bit applications can run smoothly on 64-bit systems. There are exceptions (read on).

If you look in your system folder, you will find a folder called “WoW64″ (Windows-on-Windows 64-bit), which is basically a subsystem on your system that is capable of running 32-bit code.

Are there any 32-bit programs that won’t work on 64-bit Windows 7?

Yes. There are some exceptions. Many anti-virus and firewall solutions designed for a 32-bit system will not run on a 64-bit Windows 7 and require a special 64-bit installer. Most software providers also allow you to download a 64-bit version of their applications.

Also, any device drivers designed for 32-bit systems won’t work on 64-bit systems. So, don’t try to use your old drivers on Windows 7 x64, it won’t work.

So, yes, Windows 7 64 can run 32 bit programs!

Update: More exceptions include Photoshop and basically all Adobe products. Adobe released a special 64-bit edition for 64-bit systems.

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Filed Under: Tutorials Tags: 32bit, 64bit by sOliver - Friday, March 19th, 2010

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2 Responses to Can you run 32 bit programs on 64 bit Windows 7?

Hadi Rahadian said:
March 20, 2010 at 5:07 am

Hi There…my name is hadi…i’d like to ask the difference of 32 bit n 64 bit operating system. my cpu : intel dual core 2,6 Ghz, Asus P5kpl, ddr2 1GB, VGA + Sound onboard, 250GB of HDD. can i use 64 bit operating system??? which version of windows is best for my cpu??? thanks for anyone that can help me..sorry if my english not too good…
sOliver said:
March 20, 2010 at 5:54 am

Hi Hadi. I wouldn’t recommend Windows 7 64-bit for your setup. You have only 1GB RAM, so you should use Windows 7 32bit. If you can upgrade your RAM to 4GB, then you could use Windows 7 64-bit.

64-bit Windows 7 will be better if you are using a lot of 64-bit optimized applications (there aren’t many yet). Some applications can use the power of your dual/quad more efficiently on Windows 7 x64 than on x32.