32 bit and 64 bit processors.. the final battle

The battle between 32 bit and 64 bit processors

Techadviser gh

Many questions have been asked about what the difference between a 32 bit and a 64 bit processor. Customers do not know the difference when buying a personal computer. I will try to explain in simple terms these 2 kinds of processors, them and try to answer the popular FOQS on them

32 bit processor

The 32 bit processor was developed by Microsoft in the 1990’s.. Most of the operating systems as used then till now adays were designed to run on a 32 bit processor. Computers with 32 bit processors could take a max of 4 gigabyte (gig) RAM (random access memory) and work with data which in 32 characters. The RAM basically holds programs that are running on the computer. So the higher the RAM the more programs a computer can run simultaneously. Computers with 32 bit processors are becoming obsolete as they are being overtaken by newer computers with 64 bit processors

64 bit processor

The type of processor was initially developed for a super computer by IBM in the 1960’s, it wasn’t for home use.. It was later adapted for personal computers in the later versions of windows XP, latter to windows 7 and 8. 64 bit computers can take more RAM, which means it can work faster and run more programs simultaneously. They can take Rams above 4 gig and are usually dual core, quad core or higher. Newer versions of windows run on a 64 bit processor.

32 64

Max ram is 4 gig Takes 4 gig and abouve

Single core processor Dual, quad core or higher

Does not affect sound, or video graphics Same

Foqs

techadvisor

• should I buy a computer with a 32 bit or a 64 bit processor?

Well, 32 bits are getting obsolete so it will be better to buy a computer with a 64 bit processor

• How do I know my computer is a 32 or 64 bit?

To check, go the control panel, select systems

Under system types, the type of windows (32 bit or 64 bit) will be displayed

Or

In the control panel, select performance information and tools (if you can’t find it, use search in the control panel),

Select view and print detailed performance and system information.

This will give you a general overview of your system (including the type of processor you are using )

• Can a 32 bit processor run a 64 bit program or vice versa?

No a computer with a 32 bit processor can’t run a 64 program

On the other hand, a computer with a 64 bit processor can run a 32 bit program but it may not function well..updates are usually available to update 32 bit programs into 64 bit programs hence run well on computers with 64 bit processors.

I’ve answered a few questions here, if you don’t understand anything please leave a comment and I answer as soon as possible.

Take care and God bless..