Database Connection Issue

I have recently changed my Access database from 32 bits to 64 bits and now I am having database connection issues. When I attempt to reconfigure or create a new connection I get the following message:

The 'Microsoft.OleDB.12' provider is not registered on the local machine.

I have tinkered around with my project settings enough to have completely messed up the project. So I started a whole new project with a new solution, etc. and still get the error.

I am at a complete loss as to what can be done, except the possibility of going back to 32 bit Access, which seems like a very poor solution.

The drivers for Access are really touchy when it comes to 32 vs 64 bit.

1) I do not believe you can mix 32 and 64 bit Office components.
If you want to use 64 bit you have to have only 64 bit installed.

RE: Office 2010. If you load the DVD and do a direct install it installs as 32 bit by default.

To install 64 bit you have to use windows explorer to path your way to the 64 bit install folder and install from there.

2) Be sure to identify the exact Access version in your connection string.

3) There is a stand alone 64 bit Access driver you can download.

I have already loaded the driver, but still am unable to make a dataset connection. All of my office components are now 64 bit (I weep when I think about whatever possessed me to change that). And I still cannot see how one would register the OleDB.12 or what that means.

This is one reason I do not use Access DB's if I can help it.