Is 64 bit win XP pro backward compatble?

[xlav]

Will 64bit win XP pro work with 32 bit files, etc?

 

[linney]

I imagine XP 64bit is similar to Vista 64bit, if it is, then the operating system will be 64bit but it will be able to run 32bit (x86) applications (if they install OK) and read their files or other 32bit files. You will have two Program Files folders, one for 64bit applications, and one for x86 applications. XP will install the programs into the appropriate folder. Similarly you will have two System folders, System32 and SysWOW64. All Windows Updates must be for the 64bit operating system however.

The above is purely based on my experience with Vista 64 bit, so it could be dead wrong as far as XP is concerned.

 

[BadBigBen]

@linney - No, you are dead RIGHT! And the same goes for the 2k3 64bit...

Overview of the compatibility considerations for 32-bit programs on 64-bit versions of Windows Server 2003 and Windows XP

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/896456

Overview of Windows XP Professional x64 Edition

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/64bit/overview.mspx

Ben

"If it works don't fix it! If it doesn't use a sledgehammer..."

 

[linney]

Thanks Ben, for the confirmation.