32 bit or 64 bit

[humbercoastguard]

It's then old man again with a question, I have just noticed on my Berarc readout details that the processor is 64 bit ready does that mean I can install 64bit software or do I have to upgrade the computer?. I ask as I have ordered Windows 7 and I read somewhere that it has 32 & 64bit.
Ken

 

[clifford_cooley]

If Belarc tells you that the computer is 64 bit capable. You can install the 64bit OS as well as the 32bit. Yes its true that Windows 7 will come with both 32bit and 64bit.

However the 64bit OS will need 64bit hardware drivers as well as 64bit applications installed. There is also a 2GB memory minimum to install the 64bit OS.

Summary - If you dont have more than 2GB memory. If all your hardware drivers and applications are 32bit. You may want to use the 32bit version.

 

[humbercoastguard]

Thanks for the information. Is the quality of everything better on 64bit?

 

[clifford_cooley]

I can not speak for the 64bit. I have not installed the 64bit OS. I do however plan on doing so soon.

 

[humbercoastguard]

Thanks again and I will lookout for your report.

 

[Ian]

Thanks for the information. Is the quality of everything better on 64bit?

There's an article on on the differences here, as it's not the quality that will change but the way Windows works and handles hardware:

https://www.w7forums.com/windows-7-64-bit-vs-32-bit-t484.html

If you can run 64 bit on your PC and your hardware is compatible, then it's probably a good idea to use it