When you connect to the Windows Update Web site by using the 64-bit version of Internet Explorer, the 32-bit version of Internet Explorer opens in an x64-based version of Windows (896462)

SYMPTOMS

When you connect to the Microsoft Windows Update Web site by using the 64-bit version of Microsoft Internet Explorer, you receive the following message:Thank you for your interest in Windows Update

We need to open a 32-bit version of Internet Explorer

You can still install updates for your 64-bit version of Windows. However, you need to use a 32-bit version of the browser to view the website.
If you click Open it now, the 32-bit version of Internet Explorer opens, and Windows Update continues. The following message appears in the 64-bit Internet Explorer window:
Thank you for you interest in Windows Update

Please close this browser window

A 32-bit browser is now displaying the update website.

CAUSE

This behavior occurs because Windows Update uses 32-bit ActiveX controls. Therefore, Windows Update requires a 32-bit browser to work correctly. If you access Windows Update by using the 64-bit version of Internet Explorer in x64-based versions of Windows, you receive the message in the "Symptoms" section. The 32-bit version of Internet Explorer is started and opens the Windows Update Web site.

MORE INFORMATION

Technical support for Windows x64 editions

Your hardware manufacturer provides technical support and assistance for Microsoft Windows x64 editions. Your hardware manufacturer provides support because a Windows x64 edition was included with your hardware. Your hardware manufacturer might have customized the Windows x64 edition installation with unique components. Unique components might include specific device drivers or might include optional settings to maximize the performance of the hardware. Microsoft will provide reasonable-effort assistance if you need technical help with your Windows x64 edition. However, you might have to contact your manufacturer directly. Your manufacturer is best qualified to support the software that your manufacturer installed on the hardware.

For product information about Microsoft Windows XP Professional x64 Edition, visit the following Microsoft Web site:

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/64bit/default.mspx

For product information about Microsoft Windows Server 2003 x64 editions, visit the following Microsoft Web site:

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsserver2003/64bit/x64/default.mspx