How do I install install process explorer? Which version of the installer should I use and why?

Question

Background / Context (or see TLDR below)

I am trying archive deeply nested directories and need a work around for the 260 character limit for path file names in Windows. I've modified the following registry key:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\FileSystem LongPathsEnabled

and now I need to edit the app manifest to include the following:

• <windowsSettings> <longPathAware>true</longPathAware> </windowsSettings> https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/win32/fileio/maximum-file-path-limitation

I'm not able to save the manifest due to a permissions issue after taking ownership and I'd like to see if there is a process with a lock on the file.

TLDR

There are 3 different versions of the installation file.

1. procexp.exe
2. procexp64.exe
3. procexp64a.exe ?? (portable? That would be nice)

WHICH INSTALLER SHOULD I USE AND WHY? Other

I understand that versions (1) and (2) above are likely 32-bit and 64-bit versions, but I don't understand why 32-bit versions are always offered. Aren't all supported Windows systems 64 bit? Is this for legacy / hobby?

Moreover, I would like to know what the '64a' version (3) is for.

The documentation o0n installation that I found mentions only version(1) and the he link to the Q&A is a dead link.

Please advise

Article: Process Explorer v17.065, Mark Russinovich and 12 contributors, May 28, 2024

Article Text:

Installation

Simply run Process Explorer (procexp.exe).

The help file describes Process Explorer operation and usage. If you have problems or questions, visit the Process Explorer section on Microsoft Q&A (no relevant info)

https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/sysinternals/downloads/process-explorer

Answer 1

The process explorer executables can be run directly after they are extracted from the zip file to your target system. No further installation is needed. You are correct about the 32-bit and 64-bit versions of the program. On my Windows 10 system I only ever use the 64-bit version. The executable with the "a" suffix is for ARM architectures. As far as long paths are concerned if you are comfortable with the command line look into using robocopy. It is very full featured and natively supports long paths. robocopy