How to make IE x64 the default browser?

[Evan Platt]

I've also wondered about that. Firstly, I'm not sure that even with all
permissions Win7 would allow you to rename or move 32-bit iexplore.exe
out of the Program Files (x86) folder. Would it then allow you to copy
64-bit iexplore.exe to that folder?

If not, you should be able to do it with a linux live CD which can
read/write to NTFS partitions.

Just saw your reply after I sent my other message. I should have
documented what I did, but it was in Security / Advanced / Ownership,
and I had to assign myself as the owner. Copying the 64 bit exe was no
issue.

 

[Jeff Layman]

Just saw your reply after I sent my other message. I should have
documented what I did, but it was in Security / Advanced / Ownership,
and I had to assign myself as the owner. Copying the 64 bit exe was no
issue.

At least we know it can be done. Crash can try it rather than his VB
script.

But I don't like IE9, so won't be making any changes on my Win7.

 

[Dave \Crash\ Dummy]

At least we know it can be done. Crash can try it rather than his VB
script.

No, thank you. My little script is simpler and safer. I don't have to
mess with the system files or the registry. Anyway, I don't particularly
want to make the 64 bit version the default. I just want to have the option.

 

[Phantom Post]

I don't know if that is true, or not, but the latest Flash runs in
either of my IE browsers. Only one Flash is shown in my Programs and
Features list, the 64 bit version. So either the 64 bit Flash
installation also includes a 32 bit version or the 64 bit Flash runs in
the 32 bit IE (not likely).

On the Adobe page for downloading 64bit Flash it says quite prominently in
a bright yellow box that the 64bit version contains the 32bit as well. Not
even hardly too confusing . . .

 

[FlipFlops2001]

64bit IE default, yes it can be done.

1) Log in as an "Adminsistrator". Open Windows Explorer. Navigate to your [\Program Files (x86)\Internet Explorer\] folder (normally on your C:\ drive).

2) Right click on [iexplorer.exe] goto "properties"/"security". Change rights to full access.

3) Rename file [iexplore.exe] to something else, ie. [iexplore[x86].exe].

4) In Windows Explorer, goto folder [\Program Files\Internet Explorer\] and copy file [iexplorer.exe].

5) Return to folder [\Program Files (x86)\Internet Explorer\] and paste.

Since Windows assumes that the executable file in the [x86] folder is IE it will now execute the 64 bit version. If you need to use the 32 bit version for specific applications, you will need to create a shortcut to your renamed file.