32-bit vs. 64-bit: What are the differences
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As with all Microsoft Windows Operating Systems, there are many different flavors. From Home to Pro editions from 32-bit to 64-bit, there is something for everyone. In terms of architecture, what are the differences?
A quick history
In 1993, Microsoft released Windows NT 3.1, which was a fully
32-bit operating system. This version of Windows brought NTFS to the masses. In
2003, Microsoft would introduce a 64-bit Windows XP edition that took advantage
of the 64-bit processors released.
What are the differences?
64-bit processors are more complex than 32-bit versions. This is
because 64-bit processors can handle more data at once compared to the 32-bit
processors. It can store more computational values, including memory
addressing, which means it can access over four billion times the physical
memory of a 32-bit version.
In terms of Windows Server, having the 64-bit version of the
Server OS would allow for better performance with applications and utilize
hardware capabilities. Microsoft Server 2008 was the last 32-bit OS that was
released for servers and clients; however, Microsoft did release a version of
Server 2008 that is 64-bit around the same time. With the 64-bit Server OS
release, applications, such as Exchange 2007, which requires x64 was mandatory,
SQL Server 2005 performed better on this architecture.
Another difference between the two is in the file system itself.
Windows users may have noticed that two Program Files folders: Program Files
and Program Files (x86). Applications all use shared resources on a
Windows-based system. These shared files are called DLL files and are
structured differently depending on whether it is using a 64-bit or 32-bit
application. For example, if a 32-bit application searches for a DLL file and
locates a 64-bit version, the 32-bit application would stop working.
Since 32-bit (x86) architecture has been in circulation for many
years, plenty of applications utilize the 32-bit architecture. In comparison,
64-bit systems can run on both the 32-bit and 64-bit software. Because of this,
two Program File directories on the same computer would allow both 32-bit and
64-bit applications to function correctly. When a 32-bit application requires
the DLL file, Windows will know which DLL file to server up.
Thanks again for
dropping by my blog. I hope that the content above gave you a little bit of
information regarding the differences between a 32-bit and 64-bit system. If
you feel that I left anything out, please feel free to add in the comments
below. I would love to hear from you.
Until then, take care, and see you next week!
Sources
Martindale. (2020, April 23). 32-Bit vs. 64-Bit:
Understanding what these options really mean. Digital Trends. https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/32-bit-vs-64-bit-operating-systems/
Sugano. (2018, October 11). Windows Server 2008:
32-Bit or 64-Bit? IT Pro. https://www.itprotoday.com/windows-server/windows-server-2008-32-bit-or-64-bit
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