64-bit computing is replacing 32-bit, mainly because 64-bit enables faster hardware and software. Here's the rundown on the ongoing 32-bit vs. 64-bit debate. Skip to main content ...

Installing a 32-bit OS on a 64-bit-architecture system can work, but it's not optimal. A 32-bit OS, for example, has more limitations—the standout being it can only really utilize 4GB of RAM.

While a 64-bit processor can run a 32-bit operating system, the reverse is not true. If your computer has a 32-bit processor, the decision has already been made for you.

More and more frequently, users are installing the 64-bit version of their operating system of choice over the less capable 32-bit version. But most people don't really have a full understanding ...

The difference between Windows 32-bit and 64-bit is processing power. A 64-bit processor can handle more data simultaneously, so it's more capable overall. Most new processors are based on the 64-bit ...

X64 is the 64 bit extension technology that AMD invented (AMD64) to seamlessly migrate the 32 bit x86 (as in 286, 386, 486 compatible microprocessors) world into a 64 bit era.

If you run a 32 bit OS on a 64 bit machine with 4GB ram or less you still save a lot. You can even run it with more RAM (using the address extensions features of x86) and you save a lot.

My benchmarking marathon last week seemed to generate more questions and requests for further benchmarking. A popular request from you, Constant Reader, was to see Windows Vista 32-bit benchmarked ...

For example, on Windows Vista 64-bit, 32-bit applications must be “thunked” via the WoW64 (Windows on Windows) subsystem to run. Similar methods are used in other operating systems.

Transitioning from 32-bit to 64-bit can seem daunting, but it’s easier than porting from a 16-bit application to a 32-bit application. Most well-written C code will work without much modification, ...