Is it possible to load a 64-bit dll into a 32-bit process?

Question

Is it possible to load a 64-bit dll into a 32-bit process ?
Generally speaking, I know it can not happen.
Yet, maybe there are some exceptions ?

Why would there be exceptions? What would those exceptions possibly be? What conditions would create them? On what architecture? — Cody Gray, Jan 09 '12 at 11:18

score 2 · Accepted Answer · answered Jan 09 '12 at 11:17

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No, and neither a 64-bit process can load a 32-bit DLL.

If you're on a 64 bit OS, you can load the DLL in a 64-bit process and have it communicate with your 32-bit process through IPC.

If you're on a 32 bit OS, you're out of luck.

answered Jan 09 '12 at 11:17

CharlesB

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score 0 · Answer 2 · edited May 23 '17 at 12:21

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In .NET, it is possible to load a 64-bit DLL into a 32-bit process for reflection only. For details please check "Analyze 64-bit DLL from within T4 template in Visual Studio (32-bit) using Reflection".

I know that this is a special case, but I thought I'd add it anyway because it might help others looking for a similar solution as me.

edited May 23 '17 at 12:21

Community

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answered Oct 02 '13 at 13:23

gehho

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score -1 · Answer 3 · answered Feb 23 '12 at 04:59

But new computer bought today at least have 4G ram. We cannot prevent using 64-bit OS to avoid problem. We must face 64-bit positively! Server 2008 R2 only have 64-bit. Issues around EXE AnyCPU / x86, 32-bit COM / C++ dll must be handled. Ideally compile both 32 and 64 bit COM / C++ dll.

Is it possible to load a 64-bit dll into a 32-bit process?

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