32bit vs 64bit

[Dmitri]

I got a new computer with Windows 7, and some programs have both 32 and 64 bit versions. I can now run the 64 bit ones!

Ok great... but whats the difference? Is the 64 bit just faster?

 

[KmH]

Faster and you have much, much more addressable working memory space available.

The first commercial 64-bit computers, like the CDC - Star 100 and the Cray 1, appeared in the mid-1970's. They were the first supercomputers.

 

[Dmitri]

ok grea, thanks for the info Kmh (as usual, you are like the resident encyclopedia lol)

 

[JClishe]

First off, just to be clear, are you sure that you're running a 64 bit version of Windows 7? You said that you have Windows 7 now, but you didn't specifically state whether it was a 32 or 64 bit version.

You can run both 32 and 64 bit apps on a 64 bit OS, but can only run 32 bit apps on a 32 bit OS.

Generally speaking you'd want to run 64 bit apps on a 64 bit OS, but that's not a blanket statement as there can be application compatibility issues. For example, the 64 bit version of Office 2010 isn't compatible with many of the 3rd party Office add-ons and toolbar extensions.

Also, you'll only notice improved performance on 64 bit apps during situations where massive amounts of memory are required. Generally speaking, for day to day use, you won't notice any performance differences.

 

[brisud]

Recently I bought new laptop with Windows 7 64bit, That's really nice and much comfortable.
Great in Speed and good memory space available.