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5 Key Differences Between 32 Bit & 64 Bit Computers

Written by Ananda Ganesha M

You may have come across the terms "32-bit" and "64-bit" when dealing with operating systems or processors. This typically happens when you're trying to install an application. The fact is, many applications are available in both versions—32-bit and 64-bit.

If you're unaware of the difference, the application you install may not work or be compatible with your PC's operating system. That's why understanding the difference between the two is important, even for beginners.

Historically, from the 1990s to the 2000s, all computers were built to support only 32-bit architecture. This is why processors used in older PCs were also referred to as 32-bit processors. Today, however, CPUs are all designed to support the more advanced and modern 64-bit architecture.

In addition to differentiating processor architectures, "32-bit" and "64-bit" also refer to the architecture of the operating system in use.

Even if you have a modern processor, you won’t be able to fully utilize its 64-bit potential if you’re still running a 32-bit version of Windows. That’s why the terms 32-bit and 64-bit are commonly used today.

In this computer-driven age, it’s essential to understand the differences between 32-bit and 64-bit architecture. So, let’s dive into the key differences below!

1. RAM Access Limitations

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The most notable and essential difference you need to know is the memory address limitation that can be accessed by 32-bit and 64-bit systems. Since 32-bit processors were created during the era of our parents, the technology back then wasn’t as advanced as it is now.

As a result, a 32-bit processor can only access a maximum of 2^32 memory addresses, which equals exactly 4,294,967,296 (around 4 GB) of RAM. On the other hand, a 64-bit processor and operating system can access much more than 4 GB of RAM.

But what happens if you have a 64-bit processor but are still using a 32-bit operating system? Regardless of how much RAM you have, your PC will only function as if you have 4 GB of RAM, limiting its performance.

2. Installation Folder Location

Did you know? Even if you're using a 64-bit Windows operating system, you can still install 32-bit applications. Many application providers offer both versions.

As mentioned earlier, 64-bit applications can utilize more than 4 GB of RAM, making them theoretically run faster. In contrast, 32-bit applications can only use up to 4 GB of RAM.

When you install a 32-bit application on a 64-bit operating system, it will be installed in the "Program Files (x86)" folder.

Why is this? The "Program Files" folder is typically reserved for 64-bit applications, while 32-bit applications need to be stored separately. This separation is essential to prevent the applications from crashing.

If they weren’t separated, a 32-bit application might load a DLL file intended for 64-bit systems, or vice versa. In such cases, the application may not run properly and could encounter compatibility issues.

3. Apps Availability

You might be wondering: if we're using a 64-bit operating system, why would we bother installing 32-bit applications? After all, wouldn't running everything on a superior 64-bit architecture ensure better performance?

The issue lies in availability. Not all applications come in 64-bit versions; many are still only released as 32-bit. These are typically stored in the "Program Files (x86)" folder we mentioned earlier.

In terms of benefits, there's no real advantage to choosing 32-bit applications over 64-bit ones. However, if you insist on using only 64-bit apps, your selection might be quite limited, as 64-bit versions are less common.

That said, whenever you come across a 64-bit version of an application, it's best to opt for it over the 32-bit version.

4. Naming

By the way, have you ever wondered why 32-bit applications are installed in the “Program Files (x86)” folder and not in a folder called “Program Files (x32)”? Here’s the story behind it.

Intel once released a microprocessor called the Intel 8086, which operated on a 16-bit architecture. Later on, Intel introduced a 32-bit architecture processor with a name that also ended in “86”—the Intel 80386. This 80386 microprocessor was the first x86 architecture product to support 32-bit computing.

Initially, the 80386 microprocessor was referred to as the IA-32 or i386 series to distinguish it by architecture. However, over time, the term x86 evolved beyond just describing the architecture. Microsoft adopted the term x86 to refer to software designed for 32-bit computing.

The name x86 became widely recognized and is now synonymous with 32-bit architecture in modern operating systems. That’s why 32-bit applications are associated with x86. As for x64, it simply refers to 64-bit architecture.

Now you understand why it’s called “Program Files (x86)” and not “Program Files (x32),” right?

4. Inter-Bit Support

It’s a distinction that may not be particularly important, but it’s still an interesting topic to explore. These days, most applications are available in 32-bit versions, with only a smaller selection offered in 64-bit versions. But what about 16-bit applications?

Unfortunately, the latest 64-bit versions of Windows cannot run 16-bit applications, which date back to the Windows 3.0 era.

Windows can run 32-bit applications thanks to a subsystem called WoW64 (Windows on Windows 64). This subsystem allows the operating system to handle both 32-bit and 64-bit applications.

However, there’s no similar subsystem for running 16-bit applications. To use them, you need to resort to specific workarounds, such as using tools like WineVDM or other methods. Alternatively, the simplest solution is to use a 32-bit version of Windows, which can natively support 16-bit applications.

That’s a quick overview of the difference between 32-bit and 64-bit. Now that you understand these distinctions, it should be easier to see why there are two separate Program Files folders.

For instance, if you’re looking for the installation folder of a particular application and can’t find it in “Program Files,” it might be in “Program Files (x86),” or vice versa.

Understanding the difference between 32-bit and 64-bit can also help you make better decisions when downloading software. Whenever possible, try to choose 64-bit applications for better performance and to take full advantage of your system’s RAM capacity, especially if it exceeds 4 GB.

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