Check operating system is 32 bit or 64 bit??

The terms 32-bit and 64-bit refer to the way a computer's processor (also called a CPU), handles information. The 64-bit version of Windows handles large amounts of random access memory (RAM) more effectively than the 32-bit version.

You should know if you're running the 32-bit or 64-bit version of Windows XP for many reasons, but most importantly so you're sure to install the type of software and drivers created to work with your operating system.

For example, if you're running Windows XP 32-bit and you want to update the drivers for a device, you'll need to install the 32-bit drivers designed for the hardware. 64-bit drivers won't work in the 32-bit version of Windows XP and vise versa.

Windows XP :-

1   Click the Start button,

2   Right-click Computer,

3   Click Properties

Note: You should be on the General tab in System Properties.

4   Under System: you'll see basic information about the version of Windows XP installed on your computer:

• Microsoft Windows XP Professional Version [year] means you're running Windows XP 32-bit.
• Microsoft Windows XP Professional x64 Edition Version [year] means you're running Windows XP 64-bit.

Important: There are no 64-bit versions of Windows XP Home or Windows XP Media Center Edition. If you have either of these editions of Windows XP then you're running a 32-bit operating system.

Now that you know if you're running Windows XP 32-bit or Windows XP 64-bit, you can be comfortable choosing the correct drivers and software for your computer.

OR

1. Go to the start menu.
2. Choose all programs
3. Then choose accessories, then system tools.
4. Now choose system information.
5. See the screen shot below. 

If it says x86 then you have a 32 bit operating system. If the processor area mentioned a 64 or AMD64 then this means you have a 64 bit processor.  If it said Microsoft Windows XP Professional x64 Edition Version then this means it is a 64 bit operating system. However as you can see from above, it says Microsoft Windows XP Professional and the processor starts with X86 so therefore this is a 32 bit processor with a 32 bit operating system.

Computers running Windows Vista or Windows 7

Click the Start button , right-click Computer, and then click Properties.

• If "64-bit Operating System" is listed next to System type, you’re running the 64-bit version of Windows Vista or Windows 7.
• If "32-bit Operating System" is listed next to System type, you’re running the 32-bit version of Windows Vista or Windows 7.

The edition of Windows Vista or Windows 7 you're running is displayed under Windows edition near the top of the window. 

Another way to see if you have a 32 bit or a 64 bit operating system

1.  Go to control panel by going to the start menu in the bottom left corner.

2.  Click on the system icon.

3.  The information will be there.

4.  See in the screen shot below I have a 32-bit Operating system.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of having a 64 bit system?

• You will need to install 64-bit drivers for all your add ons like your printer, usb stick, digital camera, and more. This is why people have had problems with having a 64 bit system. However as time goes on the technology gets better and more refined… Soon drivers will be available for most devices.
• If you have a 64 bit processor and a 64 bit operating system you will have to have  64-bit software applications like office programs, picture editors, and so on..
• There is not much compatible software available at the moment, however this is changing.
• A Vista 64 bit operating system does not support any 32 bit software.
• An AMD 64 bit processor supports both 32 bit and 64 bit operating systems.
• Vista 64 bit operating system has major improvements on security features and kicks the 32 bit but. New features that prevent and almost make system attacks impossible.
• Vista Home Basic 64 bit supports up to 8 GB of RAM, Vista Home Premium 64 bit supports up to 16 GB and Vista Business, Enterprise, and Ultimate 64 bit supports up to 128 GB, whereas 32 bit Vista supports 4 GB or RAM.
• A 64-bit processor is made with more advanced processes, have more features, and of course has faster speeds.