Anyone who opts for Windows 7 is faced with the question of Windows 7 32-bit or Windows 7 64-bit when making a purchase.
You can choose between Windows 7 data carriers which can install both versions or only the 32-bit or the 64-bit variant.

But what is the correct version and what are the advantages and disadvantages ...

 

Which versions are available in the 32-bit or 64-bit version?

With the exception of Windows 7 Starter, all versions of Windows 7 are available as 32-bit or 64-bit versions.
The inexpensive system builder versions (SB) and OEM versions are only available in the 32 or 64 bit variant.
Otherwise, both versions are always available on the Windows 7 data carrier.

Requirements to use a 64 bit version

As a basic requirement to be able to run a 64-bit version of Windows, the computer must have a 64-bit processor.
64-bit drivers must also be available for the hardware used, which must also be digitally signed, which benefits stability and security.
It is not possible to use 32 bit device drivers on computers with 64 bit versions of Windows.
If programs are installed that try to install 32-bit device drivers, they will not work correctly.
So not only does the hardware have to fit, but the software used should ideally be executable in 64-bit environments in order to benefit from increased speed.
However, most 32-bit programs also run under the Windows 64-bit version.

 

How do I find out whether my processor is 64-bit capable?
To find out whether the processor used is 64-bit capable, go to the control panel and select there
"Performance information and tools"
The link is below the overall rating
"View and print detailed performance and system information"
Clicking on it opens another window that displays information about the system, memory, graphics and network.
Under System there is the entry "64 bit capable".
Should be one here No the consideration of whether 32 or 64 bit has already been taken care of.

 

Why 64 bit?
A 64-bit computer can process twice as much information as a 32-bit computer.
A great advantage is the management of memory beyond a size of 4 GB.
The Windows 7 versions are also limited by Microsoft in terms of the maximum amount of RAM that can be used.

 

• Windows 7 Starter and Home Basic used a maximum of 8 GB
• Windows 7 Home Premium uses up to 16 GB and
• Windows 7 Ultimate can use 192 GB.

The upper limit of 32 GB applies to the 4-bit versions, although realistically only approx. 3,5 GB are addressed, so it is not worth installing more than 32 GB of RAM in a 4-bit Windows.

 

Conclusion

If the requirements for a Windows 7 64-bit installation are met and computing and data-intensive applications are used, the system will show an increase in speed with a good RAM configuration of significantly more than 4 GB and 64-bit applications.
Using a 64-bit system with only 4GB of RAM makes no sense, as the increased memory requirements of the 64-bit operating system negate the advantages.
For a "normal" computer, the 32-bit version should be sufficient, as many manufacturers still find it difficult to provide 64-bit applications and drivers.
But the future belongs to the 64-bit systems, as the memory expansion has become affordable nowadays due to the drastic drop in prices.
This and the anticipated future acceleration of the 64-bit operating systems by Microsoft will also encourage manufacturers to become more active in this area.

 

See also:

 

System requirements for Windows 7

Upgrade XP or Vista to Windows 7

The Windows 7 versions at a glance

 

___________________________________________________
This tip comes from www.win-tipps-tweaks.de
© Copyright Michael Hille

Warning:
Using Registry Editor or its tips incorrectly can cause serious system problems that may require you to reinstall your operating system. Tampering with the registry files and using the tips is at your own risk.