Benefits of the 64-bit version of Windows 7

The benefits
For home users the main benefit of a 64-bit operating system is that it lets you use more than 4GB of memory in your PC. Although 4GB may sound like more than you could ever need, Windows takes a large chunk of this for itself and running multiple applications together at the same time will use even more.

With less memory in your computer, you could find your PC slows down when under heavy use. If you play modern 3D games, which usually push a PC’s performance to its limits, having 4GB of memory makes a more noticeable difference, although it’s not quite a necessity yet.

Buyers of new PCs won’t have to worry about installing Windows at all: most PC manufacturers will supply the 32-bit version of Windows, but if you purchase a high-end model with 4GB of memory, you can expect 64-bit Windows to be included instead. It’s worth checking which one you’re going to get, just in case you have older hardware or programs that you’ll need to check.

Users of 32-bit computers needn’t worry: only a tiny number of programs will work on 64-bit Windows only, and while a 64-bit specific version of Office 2010 has been announced by Microsoft, it will continue to supply a 32-bit version for a long time to come.

Our verdict
Although it’s great that 64-bit computers can use more memory, there aren’t many other advantages for home users.

If your PC is currently running a 32-bit operating system it isn’t yet worth replacing that with a 64-bit version of the same operating system, as the hassle of re-installing Windows will outweigh the benefit.

However, with the launch of Windows 7 it’s a good time to make the change if you have a capable computer. If you’re unsure whether yours is 64-bit or 32-bit, look up your exact model of processor at AMD's or Int el's website.

If your PC contains nothing but modern peripherals and components, there is no reason not to use 64-bit.

But if your PC is older it’s possible that some devices will not work, so if you decide to make the change check with the manufacturer for up-to-date drivers and software ­ and there’s no harm in sticking with 32-bit for now.

At some point Microsoft will stop producing 32-bit operating systems and focus solely on 64-bit, which will make life easier for most of us. By that time (several years in the future) 64-bit may offer more real benefits than it does now, not just the ability to use more memory.

For more information on Windows 7 and videos explaining how the new operating system works, go to the Windows 7 section of Computeractive's website.

Computeractive Windows 7 videos
Upgrade to Windows 7 from XP part 1

Upgrade to Windows 7 from XP part 2

Upgrade to Windows 7 from Vista

Can my PC run Windows 7?

Use the Windows 7 Start menu

Use the Windows 7 Taskbar

Use Libraries in Windows 7

Guide to Snap and Shake in Windows 7 Aero

Use the Windows 7 Action Center

Set up Homegroups in a Windows 7 network

Control a touchscreen PC using Windows 7

The Windows 7 Control Panel

Set up a Wifi network in Windows 7

How to set up email in Windows 7

How to use Internet Explorer 8 in Windows 7 part 1

How to use Internet Explorer 8 in Windows 7 part 2

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