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Computer Sales Questions | 32-bit vs. 64-bit Windows 7

BY: Wade Cantrell, Computer Sales & Service

The typical user living in the USA will have two basic decisions to make when choosing the best Windows 7 version for his/her needs.  The two basic decisions are 1) purchase either a 32-bit or 64-bit of Windows 7, and 2) choose between the Home Premium, Professional, and Ultimate versions of Windows 7 (Starter  is for netbooks only, and Home Basic is offered in emerging markets only).

Looking to move to Windows 7?  I recommend you first decide whether to purchase a 32-bit, or 64-bit version of Windows 7.  The 64-bit versions of Windows 7 have the big advantage of being able to access more RAM (randon access memory).  The 32-bit versions can only theoretically access 4GB of RAM (actually less than 4 GB) whereas the 64-bit versions of Windows 7 handles large amounts of random access memory (RAM) more effectively than the 32-bit system.  Therefore, the 64-bit versions will be the long-term choice, in my opinion.

So, what would keep you from using a 64-bit version of Windows 7?  First, to run a 64-bit version of Windows, your computer must have a 64-bit capable processor.  Plus, some 32-bit software will not run in the Windows 7 64-bit environment (notably many anti-virus programs).  Finally, if you’re trying to install a printer or other device that only has 32-bit drivers available, it won’t work correctly on a 64-bit version of Windows.

One more thing, if you are currently running a 32-bit version of Windows, you can only perform an upgrade to another 32-bit version of Windows. Similarly, if you are running a 64-bit version of Windows, you can only perform an upgrade to another 64-bit version of Windows.  To switch from a 32-bit Windows to 64-bit, or vice versa, you will need to buy the full, not upgrade, license of Windows 7.  Then, back up your files and perform a custom install.

If you are planning to upgrade to Windows 7, I recommend you first visit the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor webpage at:

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows/downloads/upgrade-advisor

Then download the program, connect all your peripherals, and run the program.

Also, I recommend that you go to the following Windows 7 Compatibility Center web page to see if your software will be compatible:

http://www.microsoft.com/windows/compatibility/windows-7/en-us/default.aspx

For more information to help you pick the best version of Windows 7, or answer your other computer questions, please contact Computer Sales and Service at 925-827-1200 or visit us at 1936 Linda Drive, in Pleasant Hill.  In 2007, we were ranked the top (#1) computer shop in the Bay Area based on price and customer satisfaction.  Let us earn your business!

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Wade Cantrell

Computer Sales & Service

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1936 Linda Drive,
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523, USA

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1936 Linda Drive,
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523, USA

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

BIO: Cantrell's Computer Sales and Service was "born" in March, 1998 as a Computer Renaissance franchise. The tagline, "We Buy, Sell, Trade Used and New Computer Equipment" was the foundation of our business for many years. The computer service and repair side of our business has grown over the years and is now one of the main engines of our business. We have been recognized as the top computer repair shop in the Bay Area. We do on-site service at our customer's locations, or many of our customers bring their computer equipment to us at our shop. We are local and family owned, and are active in our community.

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Computer Sales Questions | 32-bit vs. 64-bit Windows 7