Is my Windows Vista & XP 32bit or 64bit version?

We never bother to check if Windows Vista or Windows XP installed on computer is 32bit or 64bit version. However, bells ring when you need to know exact version to install any specific program or for any other task.

32bit or 64bit? It is not difficult to check on the exact version of Windows on your computer. Following are few simple steps to check on this:

For Windows Vista – Method 1

1. Click Start, type system in the Start Search box.
2. Then lick system in the Programs list.
3. The operating system appears as follows:

• For a 64-bit: 64-bit Operating System appears for the System type.
• For a 32-bit: 32-bit Operating System appears for the System type.

For Windows Vista – Method 2

1. Click Start, type system in the Start Search box.
2. Then click System Information in the Programs list.
3. The operating system appears as follows:

• For a 64-bit: x64-based PC appears for the System type under Item.
• For a 32-bit : x86-based PC appears for the System type under Item.

For Windows XP Professional – Method 1

1. Click Start, click Run, type sysdm.cpl, and then click OK.
2. Click the General tab. The operating system appears as follows:

• For a 64-bit: Microsoft Windows XP Professional x64 Edition Version < Year> appears under System.
• For a 32-bit version operating system: Microsoft Windows XP Professional Version< Year> appears under System. Note <Year> is a placeholder for a year.

For Windows XP Professional – Method 2

1. Click Start, click Run, type winmsd.exe, and then click OK.
2. In the details pane, locate Processor under Item. Note the value.

• If the value that corresponds to Processor starts with x86, the computer is running a 32-bit version of the Windows operating system.
• If the value that corresponds to Processor starts with ia64 or AMD64, the computer is running a 64-bit version of the Windows operating system.

I have 32bit – will 64bit be a better option? The main differences between the 32-bit versions and the 64-bit versions of Windows Vista relate to memory accessibility, memory management, and enhanced security features.

Click here to read detailed differences between 32bit and 64bit version of Windows operating system and of course to find –  which is better!