32-bit vs 64-bit architecture

 

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32-bit vs 64-bit architecture

When discussing 32-bit and 64-bit architecture we are referring to the processor work or the amount of info/data that the CPU can handle per clock cycle (work or processes a CPU can do in a second, measured in Hertz) when performing a task. 32-bit meaning it can handle 32 bits of data per clock cycle and 64-bit meaning it can handle 64 bits of data per clock cycle. The 32-bit processor started being developed in the late 1970s and became available in the 1980s. It was advanced for its time however the 64-bit processor came out in the early 1990s and took over fairly quickly but 32-bit processors were still being used as nothing was wrong with them. The 64-bit processor was also found to be used in the early 1970s in supercomputers. For further information, see the differences between the two architectures in the table below:

32-bit processors can only use up to 4 GB of RAM even if more is installed.	64-bit processors can use 17 billion GB of RAM depending on the OS version.
32-bit processors require a 32-bit OS.	64-bit processors may run either 32-bit or 64-bit OS however performance may vary.
32-bit processors are not ideal for multitasking due to single core processors.	64-bit processors are very good at multitasking due to multiple core processors and logical cores.
32-bit OS needs a 32-bit processor to run apps and programs. Is driver specific.	64-bit OS needs a 64-bit processor to run apps and programs. Is driver specific.
32-bit processors have basic security features.	64-bit processors have enhanced security features.

 

One advantage about 32-bit processors is that they support older systems. However most modern systems use 64-bit processors for their enhanced capabilities. The advantages they provide outweigh the minimal benefits an end-user would get by using a 32-bit processor. I would recommend a 64-bit system as they won’t be facing an end-of-life situation any time soon (when a company stops providing updates and support for that system).

Resources/Citations:

1. Martin, M. (2021, August 27). 32 bit vs 64 bit: Key Differences. Guru99. https://www.guru99.com/32-bit-vs-64-bit-operating-systems.html
2. Learn To Code Together. (2019, July 3). 32-bit vs. 64-bit processor architecture? Learn To Code Together. https://learntocodetogether.com/32-bit-vs-64-bit-archtecture/
3. Diffen LLC. (n.d.). 32-bit vs 64-bit - Difference and Comparison. Diffen.com. https://www.diffen.com/difference/32-bit_vs_64-bit#:~:text=Architecture%20and%20Software.%2032-bit%20and%2064-bit%20are%20terms,to%20perform%2032-bit%20integer%20arithmetic%20and%20logical%20operations