32-Bit and 64-Bit: What You Need To Know and Their Differences

32-bit and 64-bit: what you need to know and their differences

What is a BIT?

A Bit, also known as binary digit is the basic unit of information in computing and communication systems. It is the amount or smallest unit of information in the computer system. A bit exists in only two distinct states, that is 0 and 1. It represents two stable positions of an electrical switch or two directions of electric flow in an electric circuit (0 = OFF, 1 = ON). Information, whether small or large is stored and worked upon in BIT on the computer. The circuitry of a computer, memory, CPU speed, processing power are all measured in BITS.

The term 32-Bit or 64-Bit processor refers to the way a computer’s processor (CPU) can handle

information. Since Intel and AMD are the two CPU’s manufacturers in the market today, they made different types of CPUs with different BIT capability from 4 up to 256 BIT. But today computers come with 32-Bit or 64-Bit processor determined by the maker, price and power management. 64-Bit capable CPU seems more powerful, faster, runs more applications and can handle large amount of RAM more effectively that a 32-Bit system. 

Check Manually: A laptop or desktop computer with 4GB or more RAM (Random Access Memory) is likely to have 64-Bit capable CPU in it.

Advantages of 64-Bit Processor

1.   It can address a larger number of locations in physical memory.

2.   It gives greater performance.

3.   It can handle more of RAM 4GB – 64GB.

4.   Its processing can improve video encoding and decoding, CAD, VMs and some heavy applications.

5.   The CPUs have the capability of running either versions of windows and application software (32-bior 64-bit).

6.   It is capable of handling applications that require more than 4Gb of memory to complete their tasks.

But

1.   64-Bit technology is not in full as some software vendors haven’t switch from 32-bit to 64-bit. 

2.   Most AMD 64-Bit processors are less expensive, and can’t be compared with the Intel power.

3.   You cannot use 32-Bit drivers on 64-Bit processing window.

Why 32-Bit?

Microsoft and MAC have made it easier by developing their operating system in 32-Bit and 64-Bit. There are various reasons behind this actions. Yes, many people are still stuck to 32-Bit PCs and some

64-Bit PC owners still prefer 32-Bit Operating System due to their custom software or personal applications. So, 32-Bit can’t be overruled. Though 32-Bit CPUs are capable of running with optimum speed which can handle 2GB - 4GB of RAM, drivers, application software are still developed in 32-Bit. 64-Bit CPU has more power and is more efficient. It is good news that some software vendors and programmers have upgraded and are upgrading their software into 64-Bit or even 32-Bit and 64-Bit in one program which you can choose the one to install.

 

Updated 2020 

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