Re: Vista x86 program folder not showing in directory

Tech-Archive recommends: Repair Windows Errors & Optimize Windows Performance

Hi, MrCager.

Press <Win>+<Break>

That is: Hold down the Windows logo key (labeled Start on some keyboards - it's the key between the left Ctrl and Alt keys), like a Shift key, while you press the <Pause/Break> key, which is found in the upper right area of most keyboards. If this doesn't work, then click Start | Control Panel | System.

Using either method of access, the System Properties window should show your Windows edition (Windows Vista Home Premium) and, if it has been installed, "Service Pack 1". Also, a little further down, under System, there should be a line showing "System type: 64-bit Operating System". Please confirm that this is what you see on YOUR system.

The "Program Files (x86)" folder appears ONLY on 64-bit operating systems. If your computer has 32-bit Vista installed, even on 64-bit hardware, you will see only "Program Files", without the "(x86)".

In other words, 32-bit Vista will have only C:\Program Files. But 64-bit Vista will have BOTH C:\Program Files and C:\Program Files (x86).

In 32-bit Vista, all programs will be in the one Program Files folder. In 64-bit Vista, your 32-bit programs will be in Program Files (x86), and your 64-bit programs in Program Files.

With that background, have another look at your Windows Explorer and tell us what you see in C:\. If you have BOTH versions of the Program Files folders, see if both are "populated" with installed applications.

Please post back with what you find.

RC
--
R. C. White, CPA
San Marcos, TX
rc@xxxxxxxxxxxxx
Microsoft Windows MVP
(Running Windows Live Mail 2008 in Vista Ultimate x64 SP1)

"MrCager" <MrCager.3go9nc@xxxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote in message news:MrCager.3go9nc@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

I recenty became the proud new owner of a computer with Windows Vista
Home premium edition. Living in this new environment was good at the
beginning, but now I believe I have some kind of issue. When I open the
"Computer" window and click on my "C" drive to view the "Program"
folders I noticed that the "Program files X86" folder is nowhere to be
found. It was there when I first brought the computer home but,
something happened and I am not quite sure what. All my software seems
to be running without trouble.

MrCager

.

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