Autoruns 64 Vs Autoruns 64a Upd May 2026

Understanding Sysinternals: Autoruns64 vs. Autoruns64a When you download the Sysinternals Autoruns package, you'll find a zip file packed with several executables. If you've ever wondered which one to click between autoruns64.exe and autoruns64a.exe, the answer comes down to your computer's processor architecture. The Quick Answer

autoruns64.exe is compiled for the AMD64 instruction set (standard Intel/AMD 64-bit CPUs). Run this on an ARM64 Windows device, and it will work—albeit under emulation (which can be slow, memory-intensive, and potentially miss some low-level ARM-specific startup artifacts).

The primary difference between Autoruns64 and Autoruns64a is the processor architecture they are designed to run on. Both are part of the Microsoft Sysinternals Autoruns suite, which helps identify programs configured to run automatically during system boot or login. Quick Comparison Table Intended Architecture autoruns64.exe x64 (64-bit Intel/AMD) Standard desktops and laptops with 64-bit Windows. autoruns64a.exe ARM64

Command Line Equivalents: If you prefer scripting or automation, the suite also includes autorunsc64.exe (for x64) and autorunsc64a.exe (for ARM), which provide the same data in CSV or XML format.

Part 2: The Core Difference – ARM64 vs x64

The letter “a” in autoruns64a.exe is the key. It stands for ARM64.

The Sysinternals suite provides different binaries to ensure the tool can run natively on the specific CPU architecture of your device. While a 64-bit ARM device can often emulate x64 software (like autoruns64.exe), running the native 64a version ensures better performance and more accurate scanning of system locations that might be architecture-specific, such as certain registry keys or driver paths. Which One Should You Run?

Part 7: Common Myths Debunked

Myth 1: "autoruns64a is for 64-bit AMD processors"

False. The "a" means ARM, not AMD. For AMD64 (Intel/AMD 64-bit), you use autoruns64.exe.

Using autoruns64a allows you to see these redirected paths, which can be crucial for:

For tips on how to use Autoruns to speed up your PC and manage startup items: Speed Up Your PC with Sysinternals Autoruns MikeTheTech YouTube• Jul 27, 2024 How to Use Autoruns to Detect and Remove Malware on Windows