[dll] Why do 64-bit DLLs go to System32 and 32-bit DLLs to SysWoW64 on 64-bit Windows?

Ran into the same issue and researched this for a few minutes.

I was taught to use Windows 3.1 and DOS, remember those days? Shortly after I worked with Macintosh computers strictly for some time, then began to sway back to Windows after buying a x64-bit machine.

There are actual reasons behind these changes (some would say historical significance), that are necessary for programmers to continue their work.

Most of the changes are mentioned above:

  • Program Files vs Program Files (x86)

    In the beginning the 16/86bit files were written on, '86' Intel processors.

  • System32 really means System64 (on 64-bit Windows)

    When developers first started working with Windows7, there were several compatibility issues where other applications where stored.

  • SysWOW64 really means SysWOW32

    Essentially, in plain english, it means 'Windows on Windows within a 64-bit machine'. Each folder is indicating where the DLLs are located for applications it they wish to use them.

Here are two links with all the basic info you need:

Hope this clears things up!

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