Windows 7 - Benefits of 64 bit?

gln2d3 · 11-12-2011

Hi-yah everyone, I've got a 64 bit system, and I'm just wondering the things 64 bit can do over 32 bit. I know 32 bit maxes out a 3.5 gigs, so with 64 bit I know you can use all 4 gb for my system, but what are other good things about the x64 architecture? I like asking you guys because you make it plain and simple, and you don't ramble on either

Wishmaster · 11-12-2011

Have alook at the KB article:
A description of the differences between 32-bit versions of Windows Vista and 64-bit versions of Windows Vista
Its refering to Vista, but it will apply to Windows 7 as well.

In short, quoting from the KB article, the major differences between the 64bit and 32 versions are:

Quote:

-Increased memory support beyond that of the 4-GB addressable memory space that is available in a 32-bit operating system

-Increased program performance for programs that are written to take advantage of a 64-bit operating system

-Enhanced security features

gln2d3 · 11-12-2011

@Wishmaster Thank you!

Corazon · 11-12-2011

Specificially, under 64-bit Windows each running application can take advantage of a 4GB virtual address space assigned to it - it's rarely necessary but a nice boon for truly demanding programs such as some MMORPG games, Photoshop, etc. which can easily outgrow the 2GB address space they receive under 32-bit Windows.

(32-bit version of Windows can be configured to assign up to 3GB VA to processes, but that's the absolute limit for them.)

Wishmaster · 11-12-2011

I honestly do not see a reason for most home PCs to use 32bit over 64bit.

I mean, 4GB RAM+ is rather normal, and 64bit hardware support is very good these days.

Sure, there may be some instances where older hardware isnt supported, so its worth checking into.
But most hardware thats fairly new should be supported without issue.

badger906 · 11-12-2011

especially as both 32bit and 64bit version are on one disc.

TVeblen · 11-12-2011

The greatest advantage of 64 bit is the opening up the speed of processing code, while remaining backward compatible to older programs and operating systems.

I like this article because it is ancient (I think it was written on tablets) and talks about 64 bit as a great possibility!
64-bit: More than just the RAM | bit-tech.net
But very informative.

Pete4 · 11-12-2011

Aren't there some 64 bit instruction extensions to speed things up? Also NX bit to make things safer from buffer overflow exploits used by many virus programs. Isn't Win8 going to be 64 bit only? If so, good to have all required software 64 bit compatible for the future, especially for business where the same software can be used for many years. I know all software I use on regular basis works on 64 bit system.

gln2d3 · 11-14-2011

@Pete4 64 bit on Windows 8? Poor people who only have 32 bit drivers:/ That actually reminds me, I've a friend who hates the guts out of Windows 8. I think he's just obsessed with Windows 7. I don't find Windows 8 that bad though

Windows 7 - Benefits of 64 bit?

Benefits of 64 bit? problems?