Microsoft Excel is available in two architectures: 32-bit and 64-bit. As 64-bit is now the standard for modern versions of Office, most of your users will require a 64-bit compatible application. However, some may still use the 32-bit version, especially on older systems. XLS Padlock allows you to build for both platforms.
This option is only available for standalone executable files.
👉 Choose the type of EXE file XLS Padlock will generate:
- 32-bit only: Generates an EXE file compatible only with 32-bit versions of Excel.
- 64-bit only: Generates an EXE file compatible only with 64-bit versions of Excel.
- Universal: Creates a single EXE file that works with both 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Excel. This simplifies distribution, but the resulting EXE file will be roughly double the size.
- 32-bit and 64-bit: Generates two separate EXE files simultaneously. To prevent them from overwriting each other, XLS Padlock automatically adds “32” and “64” suffixes to the filenames (e.g.,
MyApp32.exeandMyApp64.exe).
Version Mismatch
If an end-user runs an EXE with a mismatched Office architecture (e.g., a 64-bit EXE on a 32-bit Office installation), they will receive an error message instructing them to contact you for the correct version.
Code Signing Recommended for Universal Mode
If you use the Universal mode, we strongly recommend that you code sign your application. This is because a temporary EXE file is created at runtime, which can sometimes be flagged by antivirus software. A digital signature significantly reduces the risk of false positives.
Info
By default, applications distributed in the bundle format are already universal.
