14 DAY TRIAL // What is the difference between 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows Vista? This is one of the most common questions raised by users. For the first time in the evolution of Windows, Microsoft is delivering the core Windows Vista editions both for 32-bit and in 64-bit. The difference is not in terms of features, options, functionality or capabilities, but in how Microsoft responds with the Windows operating system to the evolution of technology.
"The terms 32-bit and 64-bit refer to the way a computer's processor (also called a CPU), handles information. The 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows are designed for use in computers with 32-bit or 64-bit processors, respectively," reveals Microsoft. Generally speaking, the x86 and x64 editions of Windows Vista are identical, except that they are optimized for the 32-bit and 64-bit platforms, respectively. In this context, you have to think at 64-bit Window as the wave of the future. In a similar manner as the shift from 16-bit to 32-bit, x86 platforms will be discarded for x64. With its server product line, Microsoft has already made the jump to 64-bit platforms and there are also rumors that the next version of Windows designed to replace Vista, Windows Seven / Vienna will also be focused only on 64-bit.
Via x64 Windows Vista users will be able to take advantage of the superior processing power of their machine, and from unprecedented RAM support, up to 128 GB. As 64-bit technology is immature, users will still use some 32-bit programs with x64 architecture and operating system but will not be able to use 32-bit drivers.
Also, you must have a 64-bit processor in order to run a 64-bit copy of Windows Vista, and you will not be able to upgrade from a 32-bit Windows to a x64 edition of Vista.