This article describes the differences between the 32-bit versions of Windows 7 and the 64-bit versions of Windows 7
Note To use a 64-bit version of Windows 7, you must have a computer that has a 64-bit processor. Also, you must have 64-bit device drivers for the devices that are in the computer.
To determine which Windows 7 platform is installed yourself, follow these steps:
- Click Start, right-click Computer, and then click Properties.
- The operating system appears as follows:
- For a 64-bit version operating system, “64-bit Operating System” appears for the system type under System.
- For a 32-bit version operating system, “32-bit Operating System” appears for the system type under System.
The main differences between the 32-bit versions of Windows 7 and the 64-bit versions of Windows 7 relate to memory accessibility, memory management, and enhanced security features. The security features that are available in the 64-bit versions of Windows 7 include the following:
- Kernel Patch Protection
- Support for hardware-backed Data Execution Protection (DEP)
- Mandatory driver signing
- Removal of support for 32-bit drivers
- Removal of the 16-bit subsystem
One of the greatest advantages of using a 64-bit version of Windows 7 is the ability to access physical memory (RAM) that is above the 4-gigabyte (GB) range. This physical memory is not addressable by 32-bit versions of Windows 7.
Depending on the version of Windows 7 that is installed, a 64-bit version of Windows 7 supports from 1 GB of RAM to more than 128 GB of RAM. The ability to address more physical memory lets Windows 7 minimize the time that is required to swap processes in and out of physical memory. Therefore, Windows 7 can manage processes more efficiently. This memory management feature helps improve the overall performance of Windows 7
Advantages when you install a 64-bit version of Windows 7
- 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
- 64-bit device drivers may not be available for one or more devices in the computer.
- Device drivers must be digitally signed.
- 32-bit device drivers are not supported.
- 32-bit programs may not be fully compatible with a 64-bit operating system.
- It may be difficult to locate programs that are written specifically for a 64-bit operating system.
- Not all hardware devices may be compatible with a 64-bit version of Windows 7
