Autoruns 64 vs Autoruns 64a: Uncovering the Differences and Choosing the Right Tool for Your Needs
| File | Architecture | Target Platform |
| :--- | :--- | :--- |
| autoruns.exe | x86 (32-bit) | Any Windows (via WoW64 on 64-bit) |
| autoruns64.exe | x64 (AMD64 / Intel 64) | Traditional 64-bit desktops/servers (Intel/AMD) |
| autoruns64a.exe | ARM64 | Windows on ARM (Snapdragon, Apple M1/M2/M3 via Parallels/VM, Surface Pro X/9/11) | autoruns 64 vs autoruns 64a
. This version is specifically built for devices with ARM-based processors, such as the Microsoft Surface Pro X or newer laptops using Snapdragon chips. Microsoft Learn Which one should you use? Autoruns 64 vs Autoruns 64a: Uncovering the Differences
If you are analyzing kernel drivers:
The key informative feature here is that autoruns64a helps in troubleshooting and understanding the interaction between 32-bit applications and the Windows registry on a 64-bit system. On 64-bit versions of Windows, 32-bit applications that access the registry are redirected to use the Wow6432Node. This means that instead of writing to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\YourApp, they write to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\YourApp. produce a side-by-side CSV-ready checklist for triage steps,
Native Performance: Because it is compiled specifically for 64-bit Intel/AMD systems, it runs natively without needing any emulation.
autoruns-x86.exeautoruns-x64.exeautoruns-ARM64.exeOne of the most powerful features of both versions is the ability to check the reputation of your startup items directly through VirusTotal.