What is the difference between 32 and 64-bit Windows?

The terms 32-bit and 64-bit refer to the way a computer's processor (also called a CPU), handles information. The 64-bit version of Windows handles large amounts of random access memory (RAM) such as those required for high end 3D gaming.

Most new computers are 64-bit, particularly notebooks.

To find out if your computer is running a 32-bit or 64-bit version of Windows in Windows 7 or Windows Vista, do the following:

1. Open System by clicking the Start button , right-clicking Computer, and then clicking Properties.
2. Under System, you can view the system type & it will clearly state if it is 64-bit

1. Click Start.
2. Right-click My Computer, and then click Properties
   • If you don't see "x64 Edition" listed, then you're running the 32-bit version of Windows XP
   • If "x64 Edition" is listed under System, you're running the 64-bit version of Windows XP