what exactly is the difference between 64bit OS and 32bit OS?

Question

im planning on building a computer but do certain part have to be compatible with a 64bit OS, or can any custom made computer run a 64bit OS?

Answer 1

All current components support both 64-bit and 32-bit Operating Systems.



The primary differnces are:



1) 32-bit operating systems have been around much longer, so a lot more drivers are available for a greater variety of add-on devices like wireless cards, printers, video capture cards etc.



2) 32-bit operating systems can recognize a maximum if 4gb of memory, of which roughly 3.25gb is usable. Even if you have 8gb installed, Windows wouldn't see any more.



With a 64-bit operating system you're free of that 4gb limit, so computers with 8gb, 16gb etc can use all of the physical RAM.

Answer 2

Only the processor have to be compatible with 64bit instructions. All modern processors are, so you can't choose wrong when you buy a new computer.



The difference between 32 and 64bit is that 64bit processors have an extra 64-bit extensions to the standard x86 processor instruction set. What this means is that the CPU has a few extra 64bit only "commands" it can do and it can adress a lot more memory than the standard 32bit (x86) version. You can only use these features if you are using a 64bit OS.



Read more in the source.

Answer 3

the subject definitely is what's the subject. in case you're concerning pc shape it would be common so you might comprehend. 32bit and 64bit is the dimensions of practise-set sent to the processor. there is an operand code and the the rest bits are for the operand handle which addresses the reminiscence region. 32bit will generate a 32bit practise set. So after operand code no longer lots area is left for operand handle so it makes use of oblique addressing which takes greater time than direct addressing. this isn't any longer that lots gradual regardless of the undeniable fact that it creates subject whilst taking part in stressful video games or working heavy application. So choosing a sixty 4 bit processor would be greater advantageous for you, by using fact for larger RAM reminiscence like 2GB, 32bit abode windows will particularly bottleneck your processor.

Answer 4

If your using at least a dual core CPU, you can use both 32 and 64. Whilst 64 does have some things going for it, like the ability to use more than 4gbs of RAM, it does have its draw backs. You need to check what software you like to use is able to run on a 64 bit machine. If your a gamer, you may also find that some protection systems like TAGEs can be very difficult with 64.



I use 64, and have little issue, but it all depends on what programs you use.

Answer 5

All modern computer parts for PCs work perfectly with a 64-bit OS. You should install a 64-bit OS unless you have a specific version not to.

Answer 6

32 bit os can only use 4 gb of ram and doesn't allow more than 2 gb per application. that means your os will not show more than 4 gb of ram, moreover it will only use highest 2 gb per application, suppose you are running a software , though u have 4 gb ram but the os will only assign 2gb of ram to that application, if u run another software at the same time then the other 2 gb will be used, but not whole 4 gb to an application. in 64 bit os you can use more than 8gb ram and per application will use mare than 2 gb.

but be careful of choosing 64bit os. most of the average program dosen't run on 64 bit os !!!

Answer 7

typically you need a 64 bit processor to run a 64 bit os if you load a 64 bit os on a 32 bit processor it crashes out

you could use an intel xeon or an amd sempron le or atholon 64

Answer 8

64bit systems are meant for enterprise servers that handle great loads and demands even greater memory requirements



Most home systems are more than happy to stay at the more established 32bit systems



Check this for detailed information:

http://www.differencebetween.net/technology/difference-between-vista-32-bit-and-64bit/