How to tell the difference between 32-bit and 64-bit Windows: frequently asked questions

Owned by Wesley Ffolkes (Unlicensed)
Last updated: Apr 28, 2016
2 min read

Here are answers to some common questions about the 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows.

 

What is the difference between 32-bit and 64- bit version of 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) more effectively than a 32-bit system.

 

How can I tell if my computer is running a 32-bit or a 64- bit version of Windows?

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.

 

To find out if your computer is running a 32-bit or 64-bit version of Windows in Windows 8/8.1 do the following:

  1. Swipe in from the right edge of the screen, and then tap Search. Or, if you are using a mouse, point to the lower-right corner of the screen, and then click Search.
  2. Type system in the search box, and then tap or click Settings.
  3. Tap or click System.
  4. If you are running a 64-bit version of Windows 8, 64-bit Operating System is displayed in the System type field under the System heading. If you are running a 32-bit version of Windows 8, 32-bit Operating System is displayed in the System type field under the System heading.

 

To find out if your computer is running a 32-bit or 64-bit version of Windows in Windows 10 do the following:

  1. Open Settings, and click/tap on the System icon.
  2. Click/tap on About on the left side. Under PC on the right side, look to see if your System type is either a 64-bit operating system or a 32-bit operating system.

 

Can I run 32 –bit Programs on a 64 bit computer?

Most programs designed for the 32-bit version of Windows will work on the 64-bit version of Windows. Notable exceptions are many antivirus programs.

Device drivers designed for the 32-bit version of Windows don't work on computers running a 64-bit version of Windows. If you're trying to install a printer or other device that only has 32-bit drivers available, it won't work correctly on a 64-bit version of Windows.

 

Can I run a 64 bit Program on a 32 bit computer?

If the program is specifically designed for the 64-bit version of Windows, it won't work on the 32-bit version of Windows. (However, most programs designed for the 32-bit version of Windows do work on the 64-bit version of Windows.)

Device drivers designed for the 64-bit version of Windows don't work on computers running a 32-bit version of Windows.