Windows 7 Resource Center » Operating System

Windows 7:32-Bit and 64-Bit Frequently Asked Questions

MasterAdmin — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 18:18:51 +0000

What is the difference between 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows 7?

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 7?

To see if your computer is running a 32-bit or 64-bit version of Windows, do the following:

Open System by clicking the Start button, clicking Control Panel, clicking System and Security, and then clicking System.
Under System, you can view the system type.

Can my computer run a 64-bit version of Windows 7?

To run a 64-bit version of Windows, your computer must have a 64-bit-capable processor. If you are unsure whether your processor is 64-bit-capable, do the following:

Open Performance Information and Tools by clicking the Start button, and then clicking Control Panel. In the search box, type Performance Information and Tools, and then, in the list of results, click Performance Information and Tools.
Click View and print detailed performance and system information.

Can I upgrade from a 32-bit version of Windows to a 64-bit version of Windows?

No. If you are currently running a 32-bit version of Windows, you can only perform an upgrade to another 32-bit version of Windows. Similarly, if you are running a 64-bit version of Windows, you can only perform an upgrade to another 64-bit version of Windows.

If you want to move from a 32-bit version of Windows to a 64-bit version of Windows, you’ll need to back up your files and then perform a Custom installation of the 64-bit version of Windows. For more information, see Installing and reinstalling Windows.

Can I run 32-bit programs on a 64-bit computer?

Most programs designed for a computer running a 32-bit version of Windows will work on a computer running 64-bit versions of Windows. Notable exceptions are many antivirus programs, and some hardware drivers.

Drivers designed for 32-bit versions 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. For information about updating drivers and troubleshooting issues with device drivers for 64-bit versions of Windows, contact the manufacturer of the device or program.

Would I benefit from using a 64-bit computer?

The benefits are most apparent when you have a large amount of random access memory (RAM) installed on your computer, typically 4 GB of RAM or more. In such cases, because a 64-bit operating system can handle large amounts of memory more efficiently than a 32-bit operating system can, a 64-bit system can be more responsive when running several programs at the same time and switching between them frequently.

If I’m running a 64-bit version of Windows 7, do I need 64-bit drivers for my devices?

Yes. All hardware devices need 64-bit drivers to work on a 64-bit version of Windows. Drivers designed for 32-bit versions of Windows don’t work on computers running 64-bit versions of Windows.

To learn how to check for drivers, see Update a driver for hardware that isn’t working properly or go to the device manufacturer’s website. You can also get information about drivers by going to the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor website.

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How Large Is the Windows 7 Professional Download From Microsoft?

MasterAdmin — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 15:24:29 +0000

I’m going to download the Windows 7 Professional operating system from Microsoft’s website instead of ordering the disk. I’m curious though as to how large the file is going to be. I’m sure more than a few gigabytes, but does anyone know how large specifically?

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Is It Easy to Upgrade to Windows 7 From Vista?

MasterAdmin — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 01:34:56 +0000

I have a rather new laptop, and I was wondering if it would be easy to upgrade to windows 7 from windows vista?

Also, would windows 7 run smoothly on my laptop?
I have a 2.0 ghz intel core 2 duo processor and 4gb ram.

Would 7 work ok with my computer?
Would it be hard to install windows 7 (I have never installed an operating system before)?

Thanks
oh, and if I upgrade, will i lose all of my files?

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Should I Wait for Windows 7 to Buy a Netbook?

MasterAdmin — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 07:24:22 +0000

Netbooks currently run on XP, which is not the newest operating system, but I was wondering if when Windows 7 comes out Netbooks will start coming with it instead of XP.

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Mac OS X vs Windows 7?

MasterAdmin — Sat, 03 Oct 2009 13:26:09 +0000

Which operating system is better? Do you think Windows 7 is any better than the total FAIL of an operating system known as Windows Vista? How do OS X and Windows 7 compare in speed, compatibility, and just overall as an operating system.

OS X or Windows 7? Why?

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Can I Install Windows 7 Home Premium on More Than 1 Computer?

MasterAdmin — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 05:04:25 +0000

i have preorderd windows 7. i was wondering if i would be able to install a genuine windows 7 operating system on more than 1 computer? thanks

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Microsoft’s Windows 7?

MasterAdmin — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 17:06:51 +0000

What does “windows 7 may be Microsoft’s last operating system based on the desktop” mean? I can’t envision everyone having simply a monitor plugged into the internet “cloud” where all the computing takes place.

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How Long Can I Use Windows 7 Before It Becomes Bricked?

MasterAdmin — Sun, 15 Feb 2009 10:56:37 +0000

I installed Windows 7 a couple weeks ago on my laptop. But I am considering installing it onto my desktop. Does anyone know if the operating system will brick its self before the official release of the OS?

I intend on buying Windows 7 and have a beta key.

When upgrading from Windows Vista to Windows 7, will I loose my current files?

Windows 7 Resource Center

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Microsoft Windows 7 Is Coming?

MasterAdmin — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 01:24:34 +0000

Ss S asked:

What kind of Operating System did you use? Is the next OS from Microsoft attractive for you?
????????????

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What Do Testing Users of the Windows 7 BETA Operating System Think Are Advantages and Disadvantages?

MasterAdmin — Sun, 16 Nov 2008 22:50:44 +0000

Michael S asked:

I have downloaded and will probably try the new Microsoft Windows 7 BETA operating system. First I would like to know what current users think. Are there known issues?

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