I stumbled across this dilemma when I needed to download a free file from the Microsoft website and was presented with two choices for my download. I could download the file in 32 bit version or 64 bit version, depending on which one suited my operating system. Now the average user has no idea what the difference is between a 32 bit operating system and a 64 bit so I will show you how to find out which one is running on your computer.
What is a processor?
The processor is a main component of a computer that is attached to the mother board. It is technically called the Central processing Unit or CPU for short. It is the brain of the computer because it processes all of the information and data. The bigger your processor, the faster your computer performs your tasks. If you have a 64 bit processor it would probably be reasonably fast as this is a new technology.
What is an Operating system?
An operating system is the software you install on your computer that allows you to operate the computer. Windows is an operating system.
What is the difference between 32 bit and 64 bit processor
Obviously a 64 bit processor can process more information quicker than 32 bit processor, however to take full advantage of the 64bit processor you also need to install 64 bit compatible software. A 64 bit processor also allows you to have more ram installed which also adds to the performance. This is a new technology that still needs to be ironed out.
What is the difference between a 32 bit and 64 bit operating system
A 64 bit operating system is an operating system such as Windows XP or Windows Vista, that has been purposely developed for a computer with a 64 bit processor. You cannot use 64 bit software on a computer with a 32 bit processor but you can use 32 bit software with a 64 bit processor.
How do you find out if your computer is 32 bit or 64 bit
Windows XP
- Go to the start menu.
- Choose all programs.
- Then choose accessories, then system tools.
- Now choose system information.
- See the screenshot below.
If it says x86 then you have a 32 bit processor. If the processor area mentioned ia64 or AMD64 then this means you have a 64 bit processor. If it said Microsoft Windows XP Professional x64 Edition Version then this means it is a 64 bit operating system. However as you can see from above, it says Microsoft Windows XP Professional and the processor starts with X86 so therefore this is a 32 bit processor with a 32 bit operating system.
Windows Vista
In Windows Vista you can find out the same way. Start menu>Programs>Accessories>System tools>System information. You can also type the word system into the search bar in the start menu.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of having a 64 bit system?
- You will need to install 64-bit drivers for all your add ons like your printer, usb stick, digital camera, and more. This is why people have had problems with having a 64 bit system. However as time goes on the technology gets better and more refined… Soon drivers will be available for most devices.
- If you have a 64 bit processor and a 64 bit operating system you will have to have 64-bit software applications like office programs, picture editors, and so on..
- There is not much compatible software available at the moment, however this is changing.
- A Vista 64 bit operating system does not support any 32 bit software.
- An AMD 64 bit processor supports both 32 bit and 64 bit operating systems.
- Vista 64 bit operating system has major improvements on security features and kicks the 32 bit butt. New features that prevent and almost make system attacks impossible.
- Vista Home Basic 64 bit supports up to 8 GB of RAM, Vista Home Premium 64 bit supports up to 16 GB and Vista Business, Enterprise, and Ultimate 64 bit supports up to 128 GB, whereas 32 bit Vista supports 4 GB or RAM.
- A 64-bit processor is made with more advanced processes, have more features, and of course has faster speeds.
Notes:
- You can upgrade from XP 64-bit to Vista 64-bit, but not from Vista 32-bit to Vista 64-bit.
- If you are running a 64 bit operating system then we must presume you have a 64 bit processor as well.
- You can also type winmsd.exe into the run box for the system information box to come up.
- You can also press The WIN KEY and pause break to open system properties. Sometimes the information is there.
Need you advice. I will be getting a 64bit processor system.
If i were to install XP 32bit OS, the system will run at 32bit standard? will be go faster since i am having 64bit processor? will i be able to run/intall 64bit application onto the 32bit xp OS?
Nice article on 32 bit and 64 bit processors.
I often forget my home and office pc processor type and check before every install. So I wrote a simple vbscript to determine whether I have a 32 bit or a 64 bit windows. For you, here it is
http://www.ittybittytalks.com/do-i-have-32-or-64-bit-windows-xp.html
Thank you for this. I love the internet. I have no idea, though, why Microsoft can’t answer this question for itself when I am downloading their software. Or why you would identify a 32 bit system with the number 86.
I’ve recently bought a Toshiba Satellite L650. During installation process I was prompted to choose between 32 bit and 64 bit. Because I wasn’t sure which one to choose, I chose 32 bit. Now that I’ve done some research, found out the laptop is capable of running 64bit (4G RAM). How can I change it to 64bit?
I guess you will have to install 64 bit Windows (Operating system) instead of the 32 bit OS you are using now. $$