How Do You Change The Default Install Directory?

[bongripper420]

How would you go about changing the default install directory. I just freshly installed vista x64 and was wondering how to change the default install directory from Program Files (x86) to just Program Files. Anyone know??

 

[Barman58]

How would you go about changing the default install directory. I just freshly installed vista x64 and was wondering how to change the default install directory from Program Files (x86) to just Program Files. Anyone know??

Hi bongripper420

I would advise against trying to change these system folders they are there for a reason

Program Files is for native 64 Bit applications
Program Files(X86) is for 32 Bit applications running in emulation mode

Hope this helps

 

[bongripper420]

oh ****
so when a program trys it install to the x86 it means its 32 bit? and if it goes to just program files its 64?

 

[Barman58]

yes that's it exactly. in a perfect world all programs would have a fully 64bit version but until then this is vista's way of handling the issue

 

[bongripper420]

damn
okay thanks for your help man, appreciate it

 

[Clintonio]

Alternatively:

Changing the location of your Program Files Directory

If you care to edit the registry anyway.

 

[Barman58]

Hi Clintonio,

that link is for XP

I would not advise anyone to alter that setting in Vista x64 for the reasons stated in my original post.

The actual locations of the system folders may be changed by the use of "Junction Points" but that in itself is a fairly complex matter when dealing with system folders.

 

[Clintonio]

Hi Clintonio,

that link is for XP

Visit that location in the registry. You'll see that it contains related items.

Oh yes, and this;
Changing the Program Files directory in XP and Vista « Chris’s Tech Blog

I've not tested it myself, but I just applied it to my machine anyway.


As for not recommending it, that's fine for most people. But I enjoy messing with Vista. My system I am posting from doesn't even use default user profile locations. I just dislike the default structure of Vista.