32 bit vs 64 bit Windows 7
32-bit and 64-bit are computer architectures, which specify the memory and processing ability of the system. A processor with 32-bit memory addresses can directly access 4 GB memory whereas, the 64-bit processor can access double that amount of data or more. You can imagine the traffic capacity on a 32 lane highway and a 64 lane highway as a simple analogy to understand the difference.
Windows 7 is the latest version of windows operating system, famous for its user-friendly interface. Windows 7 is launched by Microsoft for personal computers, lab tops and other systems which we use in offices and homes. Nowadays, we are hearing a debate regarding 32-bit and 64-bit computer architectures. 32-bit and 64-bit are computer architectures, which specify the memory and processing ability of the system. Old systems are compatible with 32 bit only, whereas new processors support both. They act like buses inside the computer and transfer information or data from one part to other; one bus in 32 bit wide and other is 64 bit wide. The difference in the width leads to modification in applications of the system.
32 bit
In 32 bit computer architecture, integers, memory addresses or other, data units are at the most 32 bits wide. The term 32 bit is also used for a class of computers in which 32 bit processor was installed. 32 bit processor can directly access 4GB memory. Moreover, a 32 bit file format is a binary format. Many software and programs are compatible with this format as it was the most widely used architecture is past decade.
64 bit
The modern form of computer architecture is 64 bit. In which, the width of data or memory address is 64 bit. This architecture was used for some specific purposes in the past but now it is available for the use of general public. Processing of data is much faster in this system, as compared to older versions. Having a 64 bit Windows doesn’t mean that all your programs or applications will run faster, automatically, rather only those programs will work on faster pace which are optimized with 64 bit. Nowadays, we are having games and other programs which have enhanced features and can operate on 64 bit.
Differences and similarities
Both 32 bit and 64 bit have the same function is the computer, i.e. processing of data, but speed differs. 32 bit can access 4 GB memory but 64 bit has access to 8 GB and even 16 GB. All device drivers in 64 bit system are digitally signed, which makes it safer, when we compare it with 32 bit, where we have to face random crashes. 64 bit does not work fast for every application, for an ordinary home use 32 bit or 64 bit, does not make any difference, but if you have to use graphics and related applications like Photoshop and video editing, 64 bit is a better choice. In financial terms, 32 bit is economical and 64 bit, being the latest technology, is expansive. You cannot run all programs on 64 bit, although most of the older versions are upgraded from 32 bit to 64 bit, but yet majority of them is compatible with 32 bit.
Summary
32 bit and 64 bit serves the same purpose in your operating system, but they are different from each other. 32 bit, being the older one, supports a large number of applications and programs, whereas 64 bit is the new technology which processes the data at a much faster pace. For graphical applications, 64 bit is a good choice, where as it does not make any difference to a common user.