Like it or not, Microsoft’s Windows 11 operating system is 64-bit only. This means that only PCs with a recent 64-bit processor can run Windows 11. In addition, because 32-bit Windows 11 is not available, PC users running a 32-bit version of Windows 11 cannot directly upgrade to Windows 11.
Since Windows 11 is offered in 64-bit type only, many PC users wonder if their favorite 32-bit apps can run on Windows 11.
Can I install 32-bit programs on Windows 11 64-bit?
The answer is yes. Windows 11, although available in 64-bit version only, supports 32-bit or x86 applications. In fact, Windows 11 supports both 32-bit and 64-bit programs.
A 32-bit application can be installed and run on a 64-bit Windows 11 installation without any issues. However, a 64-bit application is compatible with 64-bit Windows 11 installation only. The same was the case with earlier versions of Windows as well.
In short, Windows 11 64-bit version is compatible with 32-bit apps. A 64-bit Windows 11 means nothing, but it’s compatible with 64-bit processors, and it has nothing to do with 32-bit applications.
Should you install 32-bit apps on 64-bit Windows 11?
Well, if one of your favorite programs is available only in the 32-bit version, you should be able to install and run it on Windows 11 without any issues. However, if a program is available in 64-bit type as well, it is a good idea to install the 64-bit version of the program on a 64-bit Windows 11 for optimal performance and security. This is because a 32-bit program cannot take full advantage of the 64-bit architecture.
Needless to say, programs that are compatible with Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 10 are compatible with Windows 11 as well.
Check if a program is 32-bit or 64-bit
Now, if you are wondering how to know if an installed program is 32-bit or 64-bit, it’s easy. Refer to our how to find out if a program is 32-bit or 64-bit in Windows for detailed directions.
How do you tell if a program is 64-bit even before installing?
A 64-bit program is usually labeled as the 64-bit version. If a program does not mention anything about 64-bit, it is most likely a 32-bit application.
Most of the popular programs such as Chrome, Firefox, Microsoft Office, and Photoshop are available in 64-bit. You pay a visit to the developer’s website to check if the program is available in 64-bit.
roop sing says
march 9,2023 a 7:11 pm
i have tried o install autocad lt 98 (32bit) software. it comes saying cannot install on 64 bit
machine
Dr Alexander S. Rodionov says
Same troubles with several 32 bits programs with legally purchased licences.
Windows 11 refuses to install them and 64 bits version does not accept 32 bits licence key.
I specifically refer to NCH software Nitro Pro 12 PDF …
It seems there is no existing solution.
J.Carstens says
I want to be sure that my database interface (Lotus Approach etc.) 62 bits X86 programs will run under Windows 11.
If not I will refuse the update from Windows 10 to Windows 11 as “inconvenient and disturbing”.
Belton says
Wow thanks for this write up.
Roger Christenson says
Nope. I set compatibility back to each of the earlier windows versions, and it says “This app can’t run on your PC…”
Stefan Mattsson says
Have exactly the same issue with ACAD LT , what to do ? There must be a way !
Trail says
Some 32 bit Apps not work properly. specially drivers ……
Phil says
I have tried to install AutoCAD LT 98 (32bit) software. It comes back saying cannot install on 64bit machine.