32 bit/ 64 bit Windows 7

Windows 7 is available in both 32-bit (x-86) and 64-bit(x-64) versions. The Windows 7 package that you buy includes both 32-bit and 64-bit installation discs. Though all computers are compatible with 32-bit Windows, not all are compatible with 64-bit Windows.

32-bit and 64-bit Windows 7:

32 bit(x-86) and 64 bit(x-64) refer to the way a computer’s CPU (processor), handles information. The 64-bit version of Windows handles large amounts of random access memory (RAM) more effectively than a 32-bit system. 64-bit(x-64) version is beneficial when you have a large amount of random access memory (RAM) installed on your computer, typically 4 GB of RAM or more. In such cases, because a 64-bit operating system can handle large amounts of memory more efficiently than a 32-bit operating system can, a 64-bit system can be more responsive when running several programs at the same time and switching between them frequently.

How to find whether the computer can run 64-bit Windows 7:

The computer must have a 64-bit-capable processor to run 64-bit Windows 7. To find out if your processor is 64-bit-capable in Windows 7 or Windows Vista, do the following:

• 1. Click Start –> Control Panel. In the search box, type Performance Information and Tools, and then, in the list of results, click Performance Information and Tools.
• 2. In Windows 7, click View and print detailed performance and system information and in Windows Vista, click View and print details.
• 3. In the System section, you can see what type of operating system you’re currently running under System type, and whether or not you can run a 64-bit version of Windows under 64-bit capable. Note that if your computer is already running a 64-bit version of Windows, you won’t see the 64-bit capable listing.

In Windows XP, do the following:

• 1. Click Start.
• 2. Right-click My Computer, and then click Properties. If “x64 Edition” is listed under System, your processor is capable of running a 64-bit version of Windows. If you don’t see “x64 Edition” listed, your processor still might be capable of running a 64-bit version of Windows. To find out for sure, download and run the free Windows 7 Upgrade Installation Advisor

Most programs designed for the 32-bit version of Windows will work on the 64-bit version of Windows. Notable exceptions are many antivirus programs and Device drivers designed for the 32-bit version.

However, If the program is specifically designed for the 64-bit version of Windows, it won’t work on the 32-bit version of Windows. Device drivers designed for the 64-bit version of Windows don’t work on computers running a 32-bit version of Windows.

Find out how to check whether you have a 32 or 64 bit Windows XP or Vista.

That is all about 32 bit or 64 bit windows 7!!! If you are looking for a concise guide to Windows 7, download the free Windows 7 Book from Microsoft.

Filed under: windows 7