Why does the 32-bit Aquarium Screensaver file need to be placed in the SysWOW64 folder instead of System32 on Windows 11?
On Windows 11, the System32 folder is reserved for 64-bit system files, while SysWOW64 (Windows 32-bit on 64-bit) is specifically designed for 32-bit applications. Since the Aquarium Screensaver is a 32-bit program, its files must be placed in SysWOW64 to ensure proper execution and compatibility.
Key Points:
- System32 vs. SysWOW64
- System32 contains 64-bit system DLLs by default, while SysWOW64 holds 32-bit DLLs.
- When a 32-bit program attempts to write to System32, Windows redirects it to SysWOW64 to maintain compatibility with older software.
- Why the Aquarium Screensaver?
- The aquarium screensaver is a 32-bit application (common for older screensavers).
- Placing its files in System32 would fail because Windows enforces the redirection to SysWOW64 for 32-bit components.
- Technical Reason
- The folder naming is a historical artifact. Despite "WOW64" (Windows 32-bit on 64-bit) suggesting 64-bit, it actually stores 32-bit files.
- Microsoft cannot remove this redirection without breaking legacy applications.
Solution: Manually place the 32-bit .scr file in C:\Windows\SysWOW64 or use the control panel to install it correctly.