Windows 7: Why two Program Files folders?

JohnJSal

JohnJSal

Active Member
I have Program Files and Program Files x86. What's the difference and how are these two used? I find it annoying to have to look in both when I need something. I've had programs installed into both, so I never know for sure where something is.

Thanks.
 
That's exactly right. The Program Files folder is for all 64 bit apps (most are just the 64 bit Windows apps), while the Program Files x86 are for all 32 bit apps.
 
[-0MEGA-];1359537 said:
That's exactly right. The Program Files folder is for all 64 bit apps (most are just the 64 bit Windows apps), while the Program Files x86 are for all 32 bit apps.
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Thanks guys!
 
Oh and while I'm at it, I noticed a file called "msdia80.dll" in my C: drive. I don't think it was there originally, but it is now. Anyone know what it is and if I can delete it. It's annoying me, just sitting there on the C: driver. :)
 
its a file created by Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable. i believe if you uninstall it, delete the files that are in the way, and reinstall it, your problem will be solved.
 
lovely? said:
its a file created by Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable. i believe if you uninstall it, delete the files that are in the way, and reinstall it, your problem will be solved.
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Ah yeah, some program I installed had to install the C++ Redis. But if I uninstall that, won't that program stop working? And if I reinstall C++ Redis., won't the file come back? I guess I have to live with it, unless I can do without those C++ Redis. packages altogether. I forgot what program needed them though...

Edit: But I see now that for some reason I have the C++ Redis. for 2005 (32 bit), 2005 (64 bit), and 2009 (64 bit). Maybe I could delete the two 2005s?
 
Bodaggit23 said:
I would just leave it unless it's causing a problem.

Best not to muck around in the Program Files folders...
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You're probably right, I just hate that file sitting there! :)

Plus, it seems unnecessary to have a 2005 version of something installed, especially when there is also the 2009 version, but it all happened at once so maybe it's necessary.
 
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