Last Updated on January 29, 2026
Starting with Windows XP, Microsoft started offering a 64 bit version of its operating system. Unfortunately the 64-bit version of Windows XP did not have much success thanks to the lack of driver availability and zero real 64-bit software applications. But with Windows 7 came a massive new lease on life for the 64-bit OS platform.
Now that all modern new processors support 64-bit operating systems natively, it makes perfect sense to go with a 64-bit version of Windows. It is incredibly cheap to add a lot of RAM to your computer today. Hardware manufacturers strictly write 64-bit drivers to support these modern 64-bit operating systems.
There is much more to the equation for the 32-bit vs. 64-bit debate than what is on sale at your local electronics store. There are major hardware and software considerations when trying to decide if you should run a 32-bit or 64-bit version of Windows. You need to determine exactly what you plan on doing with your computer and how much money you want to spend on hardware.
If you do not know what type of OS your computer has right now, it is very easy to check. Simply go to the Windows settings under System and then click on About. If your version of Windows is 64-bit it will clearly say so on the screen. Windows 10 was available in both 32-bit (x86) and 64-bit (x64) versions. Windows 11 is exclusively a 64-bit operating system.
Hardware Considerations
1. Check Processor Compatibility
The absolute most important thing to consider before installing a 64-bit version of Windows is your physical CPU. You need a processor that is fully capable of running a 64-bit version of Windows. Intel and AMD make a wide variety of 64-bit processors, so finding one that fits your budget is incredibly easy today.
2. Verify Device Drivers
Another important factor is that all connected hardware devices will need specific 64-bit drivers to work properly. You cannot force an old 32-bit printer driver to function on a modern 64-bit system. Keep in mind that a 64-bit OS will also take up slightly more room on your hard drive than a 32-bit OS.
3. Understand RAM Limitations
A massive benefit of a 64-bit version of Windows is that it handles large amounts of RAM highly effectively. 32-bit versions are strictly limited to 4 GB of RAM and can really only use about 3 GB of that pool. Modern 64-bit versions like Windows 11 Pro can handle up to 2 TB of RAM to power heavy server workloads.
4. Maximize System Responsiveness
This massive memory capability makes your computer much more responsive when running several heavy programs at once. You can switch between demanding video editing apps and web browsers instantly without freezing. Plus, 32-bit versions waste valuable room in that tiny 4 GB space just mapping basic devices like video cards.
Software Considerations
1. Review Software Compatibility
Software compatibility is not much of an issue today unless you are using incredibly old 32-bit software. Do not even think about trying to run ancient 16-bit software in a modern 64-bit version of Windows. It simply will not launch and will throw an immediate system error on your screen.
2. Utilize the WoW64 Layer
Older software is supported through a built-in hardware compatibility mode. Windows has a dedicated compatibility layer called WoW64 built right into the core code. This tool switches the processor back and forth between 32-bit and 64-bit modes instantly depending on which exact thread needs to be executed.
3. Maximize Active Processes
The much larger memory space on 64-bit versions of Windows allows many more processes to reside in the system RAM simultaneously. Only programs that are specifically optimized for 64-bit Windows will run faster than their older 32-bit versions. Most modern software is completely written in 64-bit code to take advantage of this massive performance boost.
For additional training resources, check out our online IT training courses.
Check out our extensive IT book series.
