The tendency of a computer’s processor to process information on RAM (random access memory) depends on the 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows. The 64-bit version can handle more RAM and applications than 32-bit.
Let’s understand it simply. The 64-bit version can handle over 4 GB of physical memory (RAM) and up to 128 GB (yes, it does!) while the 32-bit version can only handle up to 4 GB of RAM. Therefore, if you already have a 32-bit version of Windows installed on your computer, it makes no sense to install RAM above 4 GB.
The large memory capacity makes the 64-bit version more efficient while handling processes. Thus, it increases the overall performance of your PC. So 64 bit is more powerful in a nutshell. Now let’s check some more things related to these two technologies.
How to Check Your Current Version of Windows In Vista and Windows 7
To check the current version, press the Start button
. Right click on Computer and select Properties.
In the “System” section, select “System Type”. The screenshot below shows that my computer has a 32-bit operating system.
How to check if your computer can run 64-bit Windows?
To check if your computer has a 64-bit capable processor, you must perform the following steps.
Click the start button
. Enter “Tools and Performance Information” inside the search box provided. Click on the result.
Click “View and print details”.
It will display all the details of your computer. In system field you can see details about currently running version and weather your system is 64-bit capable (In my case it is capable).
Note If you are running a 32-bit version of Windows, you cannot upgrade to a 64-bit version. If you want to install 64 bit version OS then you must back up your Windows files before installing new OS version.
Advantages of 64-bit computers
- The main advantage of using the 64-bit version of Windows is that it provides better memory access and management.
- Advanced security features such as Kernel Patch Protection, support for hardware-based data execution protection, mandatory driver signing, removal of support for 32-bit drivers, and removal of pre-existing 16-bit subsystems.
- The performance of programs written specifically for 64-bit operating systems is very good.
Disadvantages of 64-bit computers
There are no particular disadvantages to using this version but there are a few things you must take care of before deciding to use it.
- You should check the availability of device drivers because 32-bit device drivers don’t work on 64-bit versions.
- Most hardware devices are not compatible with 64-bit computers.
- The device driver must be digitally signed by the developer.
- Some 32-bit programs are not compatible with 64-bit.
How to choose the right version of Windows
64 bit version
- Choosing the right version of Windows depends on your priorities and needs. If you want to take advantage of large memory (more than 4 GB) then you can go for the 64-bit version. But check the 64-bit versions of the various tools and programs you use every day before making the conversion.
- Most new software and hardware are supported by 64-bit versions. Check the compatibility status of your software and device here.
32 bit version
- The 32-bit version is cheaper than the 64-bit version.
- If you are using old software and hardware then you can use the 32 bit version as it can support all your programs and devices.
Note: Most programs designed for 32-bit versions can also support 64-bit versions (with the exception of some antivirus programs). But if a program is designed for 64 bit version it will not work on 32 bit version.
So what Windows do you use? 32bit or 64bit? Let us know your experience using them in the comments section.
Categories: How to
Source: thpttranhungdao.edu.vn/en/
