There is little doubt that 64-bit architectures are the future, as far as the parallel evolution of processors and operating systems goes. But when it comes down to Windows, the 32-bit version of the platform will survive not only with Windows Vista, but also with Windows 7. At this point in time, among the scarce details made available by Microsoft about the forthcoming iteration of Windows, to follow Vista, the only sure thing is that Windows 7 will come in both 32-bit and 64-bit flavors.

According to estimates from the Redmond company, by mid 2008, the install base of the Windows operating system would surpass the 1 billion milestone worldwide. But the vast majority of those Windows copies will still be 32-bit, largely just Windows XP and Windows Vista. On the server side, Microsoft is preparing to ship the last 32-bit operating system with Windows Server 2008. The same is not valid with Vista, but perhaps maybe it will be with Windows 7.

The bottom line is that it is not all about the process and the operating system. 64-bit Windows Vista comes with great advantages compared to the 32-bit version, including superior performance and the possibility to add as much as 128 GB of RAM for the Ultimate, Business and Enterprise SKUs. But at the same time, there are a few things you should consider if you plan to switch to a x64 platform. They all revolve around the fact that the ecosystem of hardware and software products orbiting around x64 Vista is still far from maturity.

1. Device drivers

Device drivers are bound to be a problem. Just take into consideration the troubles that Vista has had with the integration of devices in terms of hardware, in 2007. And it involved both the x86 and x64 versions of the operating system. If it had been just 64-bit Vista, the whole Wow deal would have been much worse. At this point in time, there are still manufacturers that are not delivering x64 drivers.

2. Digital signatures

Well, what about when x64 drivers do exist? Well, then they have to be tailored for Vista, and the latest Windows client comes with a little something-something called Mandatory Driver Signing. All code that goes into the kernel has to be digitally signed. If not, the driver is useless, even if available.

3. Legacy drivers

But what about 32-bit drivers? Well, no, you won't be able to integrate 32-bit drivers into Vista, signed or unsigned. The code has to be 64-bit specific.

4. x64 specific programs

What's the point of running a x64 operating system if you continue to use 32-bit applications? And have you looked at the market lately? x64 specific programs are rare, and this from top software developers worldwide. Want to talk about some obscure 32-bit utility that you have become affectionate to? Well, chances are that you won't find a x64 equivalent.

5. Compatibility

But, 32-bit applications do integrate into 64-bit Windows Vista, don't they? Yes, they do. This is the good news. While you're waiting for a 64-bit variant to your application, you could run the 32-bit version. But be prepared for serious compatibility issues.

6. Hardware

Hardware is also a problem in terms of compatibility. Not all the hardware devices on the market today are compatible with 64-bit Windows Vista.

Well, in all fairness this is bound to be just a temporary situation. And as the ecosystem of third-party products around Vista will mature with the increasing adoption of 64-bit architectures, these issues will be resolved. But, Microsoft has to put its evangelism wheels in motion and provide catalysts for the transition of 64-bit Windows.