Vista 32 bit - Two Program Files???

[LenovoGringo]

Just picked up a used X301 and noticed that there are two program file folders (The regular "Program Files" and another "Program Files x86"). I know by online searches that this is normal when a 64bit OS is installed, but I have a 32 bit version (according to the control panel). What gives?

I also have a "Windows" folder and a "Windows.old" one..... Any relation?

[hutigers]

windows.old folder exists when you install a new windows into a partition that already has had a windows in.
So you system had a 64bit windows first, and someone installed a new 32bit windows into it without formatting the disk.

[LenovoGringo]

Thank you very much. I almost guessed that scenario, but a model/type number lookup on tabook stated that the laptop came with 32bit Business preloaded.... Oh well. I guess they loaded a 64-bit version and then back to 32-bit... Weird eh?!

Anyways, I was wondering if it would be safe to delete the "Program Files x86" folder and its contents. I know this is the "32bit" version, but isn't the original "Program Files" actually what my 32-bit OS looks at (ie. it is not the 64-bit version)?

Thanks

[dr_st]

I would just reformat and reinstall, to avoid any potential mess due to pieces of two operating systems sharing the same partition.

[fuscob]

I would just reformat and reinstall, to avoid any potential mess due to pieces of two operating systems sharing the same partition.

Agreed. In my opinion, it would be too much trouble to sort out the different parts of each OS.