I'm thinking about upgrading my workstations, but I'm hearing pros & cons about 64-bit Windows. What is it? And is it something that I need?

With Microsoft releasing new versions of almost all of their applications this year, it is a good time to re-evaluate your IT needs and determine where you can increase productivity, performance, and reduce downtime. Replace aging workstations is a good place to start realizing those benefits.

But whether you're thinking about upgrading a workstation, server, or your whole IT environment, you'll inevitably have to face the question, "Do I need 64-Bit processing?"

Let's start by answering several important questions.

1. What is the difference between 32-bit and 64-bit Windows?

32-bit and 64-bit refer to how a computer is built. To make computers faster and more responsive, they are designed to use RAM (Random Access Memory). RAM is much quicker than Hard Drive space and is used to store the information on which the computer is currently working. This allows the end-user to run and switch between Outlook, Word, line-of-business applications, and browse the web quickly. 32-bit and 64-bit refer to how much RAM a computer can access at one time.

2. Why is it important?

32-bit computers can use up to 4GB of RAM. Up until recently 4GB of RAM was sufficient for almost all end users. But with software getting bigger, more powerful, and with longer feature lists, this limitation is quickly becoming too small. CAD programs, graphic design, and other programs require large amounts of memory to function quickly. The move to 64-bit allows computers to access much larger pools of memory. Because of this, most new Server Operating Systems and applications have already moved to 64-bit.

Other than the performance benefit from 64-bit computing is the new security features introduced. These features protect the computer operating system from being modified by unwanted programs.

3. Which should I buy?

64-bit sounds great, right? It can be, but there are some issues that can arise.

• Older printers may not work with a 64-bit computer
• Older DOS based programs may not run on 64-bit computers
• Some 32-bit applications may actually run slower on a 64-bit machine
• Some software add-ins and integrations may not work on a 64-bit system

Because of the benefits to 64-bit computing, most software vendors are making the move to create their software for 64-bit systems. Unfortunately, not all software manufacturers have made the switch yet.

If none of the above bullet points relate to your computing environment it is probably a good time to make the switch with your next computer purchase. If it is unclear whether to buy 32-bit or 64-bit, let the technology experts at Common Sense Solutions help evaluate the options. Call us at 877-227-2440 with your technology questions.

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