Change Default 64-Bit Install Directory in Regedit

By default, 64-bit versions of Windows install modern applications to the C:\Program Files directory. If your primary drive is running low on storage or you prefer to keep your software on a secondary drive, you can change this default path using the Windows Registry Editor (Regedit). This guide walks you through the exact steps to modify the registry keys responsible for the 64-bit installation path safely and effectively.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing the 64-Bit Install Path

Step 1: Open the Registry Editor

  1. Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type regedit and press Enter.
  3. Click Yes when prompted by User Account Control (UAC).

Step 2: Navigate to the CurrentVersion Key

In the left sidebar of the Registry Editor, navigate to the following path:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion

Step 3: Modify the 64-Bit Installation Values

In the right-hand pane, locate the following string values responsible for 64-bit software paths:

  1. ProgramFilesDir: Double-click this entry and change its Value data to your desired path (for example, D:\Program Files).
  2. ProgramW6432Dir: Double-click this entry and set the Value data to the exact same path you specified in ProgramFilesDir.

Note: Leave ProgramFilesDir (x86) untouched unless you also wish to redirect 32-bit applications to another location.

Step 4: Close and Restart

  1. Click OK to save the changes.
  2. Close the Registry Editor.
  3. Restart your computer to ensure the system and installer services recognize the new configuration.

Important Considerations