title: How do I detect whether 32-bit Java is installed on x64 Windows, only looking at the filesystem and registry?
body: <p>I need to determine whether a particular system has 32-bit Java installed.  I'm doing a remote query that only gives me access to the filesystem and registry, so I cannot attempt to run java.exe, or run any Java code.</p>
  
  <p>I also want to make sure I detect both IBM and Sun Java, as well as any other distributions, which seem to put things in different places on the filesystem and in the registry.</p>
  
  <p>The best I've come up with is to check for C:\Windows\SysWOW64\java.exe.  Is this a reliable way to test for the presence of 32-bit Java, or are there certain versions that won't put java.exe in that folder?</p>
  
  <p><strong>Update:</strong> I'm still looking for a more robust answer to this. Just to be clear, I don't have access to a command prompt.  Also, I want to detect Java no matter who the publisher is, what version number is installed, and no matter what path the user chose to install it on.  </p>
  
  <p>C:\Windows\SysWOW64\java.exe seems to fit these requirements, but I'd love some confirmation from someone more knowledgeable that every Java installer will indeed put that executable there.</p>