Difference Between Windows Xp 32 Bit & 64 Bit?

It says that the 64 bit XP is better than the 32 bit XP. But i dont understand what is it actually. Whats the difference between 32 bit and 64 bit XP. How 64 bit XP is better ?

To explain in simple words, the 64 bit OS processes at a faster speed than the 32 bit OS.
Just take example of Windows 95 and the newer windows versions. Windows 95 was a 16 bit OS while the newer versions like Windows 98, XP are 32 bit. The difference can just be identified by anyone by their speed, isn't it?

Just like that, now there is more advanced OS of 64 bit in XP which can give still better performance. However, they are usually used by the professionals as most of the softwares in the market are meant for 32 bit only.

What’s 32-bit?

In computer architecture, 32-bit integers, memory addresses, or other data units are those that are at most 32 bits (4 octets) wide. Also, 32-bit CPU and ALU architectures are those that are based on registers, address buses, or data buses of that size. 32-bit is also a term given to a generation of computers in which 32-bit processors were the norm.

The range of integer values that can be stored in 32 bits is 0 through 4,294,967,295 or −2,147,483,648 through 2,147,483,647 using two’s complement encoding. Hence, a processor with 32-bit memory addresses can directly access 4 GB of byte-addressable memory.

Now let’s see what 64-bit is:

In computer architecture, 64-bit integers, memory addresses, or other data units are those that are at most 64 bits (8 octets) wide. Also, 64-bit CPU and ALU architectures are those that are based on registers, address buses, or data buses of that size.

Now that we have the differences between 32-bit and 64-bit technologies on the table let’s discuss in grandpa’s language how they differ. The biggest difference between the two is memory addressing: hence that 32-bit only can directly access memory up to 4 GB, while 64-bits can address memory up to 1000GB or 1 terabyte.

You will not be able to get the amount of power running 32 bit applications on a 64 bit system of the X64 processor & other hardware like RAM. You can run the X32 applications is alright on temporary situation, you would want to start getting the X64 versions as fast as you can. Otherwise, there is not any reason to upgrade to X64 versions.


Now, just as when we went from the x16 to x32, there is a long period between when it first came out, to the time when mostly everyone was finally using the newer systems. Even though they were far more than twice as powerful, the change is just too severe. The cost too high. Unlike when you upgrade from one x32 computer to another x32 computer, such as going from the x32 XP to the x32 Vista, the change in hardware and software is too huge. Not only do you have to update all of your drivers, but your old 32 bit printer won't run on a 64 bit system, nor will other hardware components. You have to update everything. Think of all the offices around the globe which finally upgraded to the x32 bit systems, investing all that money on hardware/software and training, and now they are looking at doing it all over again. Some day soon they are going to have too if they want to keep up in t he global market, but they will put it off for as long as they can.

Those who are first to change to the new x64 are gamers. Those who can afford the newer systems have a real edge over those still running the slower less powerful x32 systems. They rack up more points and gain more prestige by upgrading, and they don't care if they still use their x32 bit systems for their work or home office needs. Eventually they will buy the 64 bit software to go along with their 64 bit hardware, but all they really care about is winning the games.

So, eventually we all will be in 64 bit systems. I look forward to when the prices come down, because the difference is amazing. Good luck and have a blast with your new faster and more powerful system.