What is the difference between 32 and 64 bit Operating System?

It is often a difficult situation for a common user to choose between a 32 and 64 bit Operating System (OS). Confusions and misconceptions about the merits and demerits of these two versions of OS are mind boggling indeed. Choosing either of these OS versions is more about your requirement and less about the choice. If you are a home user and running simple applications that are not taxing on the virtual memory of the system then a 32 bit OS would be an obvious choice. However, the same criterion is applicable if you are a professional user and need to run 3-D graphics and gaming applications on your PC or laptop. Now you would require an OS that helps you enjoy greater virtual memory and allows you to run many applications simultaneously. These are the benefits of having a 64-bit OS.

You should never get confused between the 64 bit processor and the 64 bit OS as both are distinct in feature and purpose. Nowadays, most of the OS including the latest MS Windows 7 comes with a 64 bit processor that can run both 32 and 64 bit OS. This is important if you want to use more than 3.5 GB of memory.

This article is going to tell you about the major differences between a 32 and 64 bit OS so just read on to know more about it:

Ability to process data

The prime distinction between these two OS versions is the address space that they offer. It means that a 32 bit processor can offer address space between 3.5-4 GB which implies that a 32 bit OS has a limit of 4 GB RAM for data processing whereas, 64 bit has a greater space to address and can support 16 hexabytes of RAM while processing data. So even if your PC has above 4 GB RAM, the 32 bit OS will not be able to use it because of this limitation. With greater RAM capacity the system is going to become times faster and efficient with a 64 bit version and you are going to experience smooth computing even if you are running many applications at one time.

Hardware components

Another difference between these two OS versions can be found with the hardware components you require to support them. With 64 bits on your system you also require a processor, motherboard and some other CPU components with greater power and output. On the contrary, 32 bits can be used even with a low capacity processor with average output. A 32 bit OS does not require a wide bus as it has to carry only 32 bits at a time whereas, 64 bits require a wide bus to carry 64 bits.

Speed and performance

Going for a 64 bits version has more advantages when compared to the 32 bit OS. Apart from being faster, the 64 bit performs more advanced silicon processes and carries more number of transistors. Moreover, it can run many programs simultaneously with greater RAM to support its functions.

Technology

The 32 bit OS version was once considered the standard form before the 64 bit was introduced. It had happened because the 4 GB RAM was considered to be enough memory space to house software applications on Windows. However, the 64 bit OS is now capable of referencing many times more locations in the memory that can go upto 16 hexabytes. It can refer 4 billion times of memory locations than what is referred by a 32-bit processor. So undoubtedly it embraces better technology and therefore is a better choice.

This article has probably answered all your queries regarding 32 and 64 bit OS. But if you are still having issues then you should consider calling an experienced computer support service provider. Their trained technicians are available 24x7x365 and they will solve any problem that you are having with your computer.