Windows 7 - Windows 7 32bit vs 64bit?

Can someone tell me the difference between the Windows 7 32bit and the 64bit?
Do most folks run 32?
Thanks,
Jack

This link is for Vista, but holds true for Win 7. In short, if you have a 64-bit processor, then you should install the 64-bit OS.

A description of the differences between 32-bit versions of Windows Vista and 64-bit versions of Windows Vista

The average user doesn't particularly need to be concerned with it.

Most store-bought PCs now use 64 and that trend will continue.

Worldwide, I'd guess most people are still on 32, but that won't last.

The primary selling point for 64 is that it will use more than circa 3.5 GB of RAM, unlike 32.

And--some applications (not many) won't run properly on 64.

In day to day operation, you aren't likely to be able to tell which you are using.

So it's determined by the processor speed? Assuming 64bit is faster? Are most proessors 32bit?

Certain processors support 64 bit Windows. All the recent PC processors do. It's the architecture of the processor, not its speed.

The speed difference isn't normally noticeable.

But you may as well go with 64 whenever possible unless you have certain older apps that will not install or run on 64.

I was one of the unfortunate who had a virtual USB port device that I wasn't sure had a 64-bit driver at the time (early 2010) So, since I have an OEM DVD, it's 32-bit only for me for the duration.

Most installations are 64 bit nowadays.

You are limited to using less than 4GB of RAM memory with 32 bit Windows (on the order of 3.5 GB). With Windows 64 bit, you can utilize more than 4GB if your processor and motherboard support it.

Most new computers are sold with a 64-bit operating system these days.

Have a look here for comparisons with the 32-bit version of Windows 7.

32-bit and 64-bit Windows: frequently asked questions

As others have said, a 64bit system is really the only way to address a full 4GB of memory and anything about 4GB of memory.

Whether you can run it depends upon a few things
#1). Your CPU must support it. But this support has been around for well over 5 years now
#2). Your hardware needs a 64bit driver. Thus if you have an older printer, and it doesn't have a 64bit driver, you would be stuck with getting a new printer or using 64bit
#3). Your software will run on 64bit. Almost all 32bit software will work just fine...as of course would 64bit software. However, if you have any old 16bit software, this does NOT work under 64bit. This old software needs a 32bit OS which can also run 16bit.

Personally, I'm going back to DOS.