Last Updated on July 31, 2023 by Mayank Dham
In computing, data is measured in bytes, and processing is typically represented in bits. Two common types of processors are the 32-bit processor and the 64-bit processor. These processor types indicate the amount of memory that can be accessed from a CPU register.
A 32-bit system can access up to 4 GB of RAM or physical memory, represented by 232 memory addresses. However, it can theoretically access more than 4 GB of RAM using techniques like Physical Address Extension (PAE).
On the other hand, a 64-bit system can access an enormous amount of memory, up to 18-Quintillion bytes (264 memory addresses). This capability enables it to handle any memory size greater than 4 GB with ease.
As 64-bit processors became more widely available, both Microsoft and Apple released upgraded versions of their operating systems to fully harness the potential of this new technology. In 2009, Mac OS X Snow Leopard became the first fully 64-bit operating system, while the iPhone 5s introduced the first smartphone with a 64-bit chip (Apple A7).
What is a 32-bit operating system?
It refers to the CPU architecture capable of processing 32 bits of data at a time, determining the amount of data the CPU can handle during operation. Many computers manufactured in the 1990s and early 2000s were 32-bit machines.
Each bit in the register can reference a single byte, allowing the 32-bit system to address approximately 4,294,967,296 bytes (4 GB) of RAM. However, its actual limit is typically less than 3.5 GB due to a portion of the register being reserved for storing temporary values and not used for memory addresses.
What is a 64-bit operating system?
The 64-bit microprocessor enables computer systems to handle information, data, and memory addresses represented by 64 bits. Such a system can typically access a vast amount of memory, around 16 exabytes (17,179,869,184 GB), or 18,446,744,073,709,551,616 bytes.
A computer equipped with a 64-bit processor, known as a 64-bit system, can access more than 4 GB of RAM. This capacity is significantly higher than what an average workstation typically requires. If a computer has 8 GB of RAM, it necessitates a 64-bit processor to utilize all the memory effectively. Otherwise, a portion of the memory, at least 4 GB, will remain inaccessible to the CPU.
Difference between 32 bit and 64 bit operating systems
A 64-bit processor surpasses a 32-bit processor in capability due to its ability to process more data simultaneously. It can store a larger number of computational values, including memory addresses, enabling it to access over 4 billion times the physical memory of a 32-bit processor.
The key distinction lies in their memory handling capabilities, with 32-bit processors limited to handling a restricted amount of RAM (typically 4GB or less in Windows), while 64-bit processors can utilize much more. Additionally, one of the significant differences between the two is the number of calculations per second they can perform, directly impacting the speed at which they can complete tasks. Here are some additional differences between 32-bit and 64-bit operating systems:
Below is a tabular comparison between 32-bit and 64-bit operating systems:
| Aspect | 32-bit OS | 64-bit OS |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum RAM Support | Typically limited to 4GB of RAM | Can support more than 4GB of RAM |
| Memory Addressing | Uses 32-bit memory addresses (4 bytes) | Uses 64-bit memory addresses (8 bytes) |
| Processor Capability | Can process 32 bits of data at once | Can process 64 bits of data at once |
| Application Support | Compatible with both 32-bit and 64-bit apps | Compatible with 32-bit apps but not all 64-bit apps |
| Performance | Generally suitable for basic tasks and older hardware | Suitable for demanding tasks and modern hardware |
| Calculation Speed | May be slower in performing complex calculations | Faster in handling complex computations |
| Security | Slightly less secure due to limited address space | Enhanced security with larger address space |
| Driver Compatibility | May have better driver support for older hardware | Better compatibility with newer hardware and drivers |
| Future-proofing | Limited future scalability for rapidly growing technology | More future-proof as technology advances |
Advantages of 64 bit OS over 32 bit OS
Advantages of a 64-bit operating system over a 32-bit operating system include:
- Increased RAM Support: 64-bit OS can access and utilize more than 4GB of RAM, allowing for better performance and smoother multitasking, particularly in memory-intensive applications.
- Enhanced Performance: 64-bit processors can handle larger chunks of data at once, leading to faster calculations and improved overall system performance, especially in applications that involve complex computations.
- Better Application Support: While 64-bit OS can run both 32-bit and 64-bit applications, it offers better compatibility with newer software and drivers optimized for 64-bit architecture.
- Future-Proofing: As technology advances, 64-bit systems are more future-proof, providing better scalability to accommodate upcoming hardware and software advancements.
- Security Benefits: 64-bit OS provides a larger memory address space, making it more difficult for malicious software to exploit system vulnerabilities, enhancing overall system security.
- Larger File Handling: 64-bit OS can handle larger file sizes, which is beneficial when working with large media files or datasets.
How to choose a processor?
Although a 64-bit processor offers greater processing power compared to a 32-bit processor, the decision to opt for a 64-bit computer or software depends on your existing configuration.
Selecting a 64-bit processor is advisable if you seek improved computer speed. The advantage of a 64-bit processor lies in its ability to run both 64-bit and 32-bit applications, ensuring compatibility with most software. In contrast, a 32-bit computer cannot run any 64-bit applications. Here are some reasons why upgrading to a 64-bit processor might be beneficial:
Conclusion
Choosing between a 32-bit and 64-bit operating system depends on various factors such as the amount of RAM you need, the performance requirements for your tasks, and the compatibility of your hardware and software. A 64-bit OS offers benefits like increased RAM support, enhanced performance, better application compatibility, and improved security. However, a 32-bit OS might still be sufficient for certain older hardware or less demanding tasks.
FAQs related to 32 bit vs 64 bit OS
Here are some FAQs related to the difference between 32 bit and 64 bit Operating system:
1. What is the main difference between 32-bit and 64-bit operating systems?
The main difference lies in their memory-handling capabilities and the number of bits they can process at once. A 32-bit OS can access up to 4GB of RAM, while a 64-bit OS can access significantly more memory.
2. Can a 64-bit OS run 32-bit applications?
Yes, a 64-bit OS is backward compatible and can run both 32-bit and 64-bit applications. However, a 32-bit OS cannot run 64-bit applications.
3. How do I know if my computer is running a 32-bit or 64-bit OS?
In Windows, go to "Settings" > "System" > "About" to check the system type. In macOS, click the Apple logo > "About This Mac" > "System Report" > "Software" > "64-bit Kernel and Extensions" (Yes indicates a 64-bit OS).
4. Which is better for gaming, a 32-bit or 64-bit OS?
For modern gaming and newer titles, a 64-bit OS is generally better as it allows access to more RAM and can handle higher performance demands.
5. Can I upgrade from a 32-bit to a 64-bit OS?
No, upgrading from a 32-bit to a 64-bit OS requires a clean installation of the 64-bit OS. It involves backing up data and reinstalling applications.