Figuring out whether you're running a 32-scrap or 64-chip version of Windows only takes a couple of steps and the tools are already built into Windows. Hither's how to find out what yous're running.

Whether you're running 32-bit or 64-bit Windows makes a pretty large divergence. Running a 64-bit version of Windows ways having improve security and the ability to use more memory in your organisation. And, if yous have a system that supports information technology, making the switch from 32-bit to 64-bit Windows is free—even if it does require a bit of piece of work. Nosotros'll walk you through how to notice out whether you're running a 32-bit or 64-scrap version of whatsoever version of Windows from XP through 10.

RELATED: What's the Deviation Between 32-fleck and 64-bit Windows?

Checking Your Version of Windows ten

To cheque whether you're using a 32-scrap or 64-flake version of Windows x, open the Settings app by pressing Windows+i, and so caput to System > Almost. On the right side, expect for the "System type" entry. It volition show you lot 2 pieces of information—whether y'all're using a 32-scrap or 64-bit operating system and whether you have a 64-bit capable processor.

Checking Your Version of Windows viii

If you lot're running Windows viii, caput to Control Console > System. You tin also striking Offset and search for "system" to detect the page quickly. Look for the "System type" entry to see whether your operating system and processor are 32-chip or 64-bit.

Checking Your Version of Windows 7 or Vista

If you're using Windows 7 or Windows Vista, hitting Start, right-click "Computer," and and so choose "Properties."

On the "System" page, wait for the "System blazon" entry to see whether your operating system is 32-chip or 64-bit. Annotation that, unlike in Windows 8 and ten, the "System type" entry in Windows 7 does non prove whether your hardware is 64-bit capable.

Checking Your Version of Windows XP

In that location's almost no point in checking whether y'all're using a 64-bit version of Windows XP, because you're almost definitely running a 32-bit version. Still, y'all can check by opening the Start menu, correct-clicking "My Computer," and so clicking "Backdrop."

In the System Properties window, caput to the "Full general" tab. If y'all're running a 32-bit version of Windows it won't say anything here other than "Microsoft Windows XP." If you're running a 64-scrap version, it volition exist indicated on this window.

RELATED: Why Are Most Programs Still 32-bit on a 64-bit Version of Windows?

Checking whether y'all're running 32-bit or 64-fleck is easy, and follows well-nigh the same procedure on any version of Windows. And once y'all've figured information technology out, yous tin can decide whether you want to employ 64-bit or 32-chip apps.