It's easy to tell whether your computer is 32 or 64-bit.
The ability of a computer to handle and process data is somewhat dependent on whether it is a 32- or 64-bit machine. Your ability to download and install some applications and install hardware components will somewhat depend on whether your computer is 32 or 64 bits. It takes a minute or two to find this information.
Instructions
Windows 7
1. Close all applications on your computer.
2. Click your "Start" button in the bottom left corner of your desktop.
3. Scroll up and right click "Computer." Scroll down and hit "Properties."
4. View the system type information that appears which will indicate whether you are on a 32- or 64-bit machine.
Windows Vista
5. Close all applications on your computer.
6. Click your "Start" button in the bottom left corner of your desktop.
7. Scroll up and click "Control Panel." Hit the "System and Maintenance" icon. Click "System."
8. View the system type information that appears which will indicate whether you are on a 32 or 64-bit machine.
Windows XP
9. Close all applications on your computer.
10. Click your "Start" button in the bottom left corner of your desktop. Click "Run" and type "winmsd.exe" and hit the "OK" button.
11. Select "System Summary." Find your processor information under the "Item" column. If the processor value starts with "x86" then it is 32-bit. If it starts with "ia64" or "AMD64" then it is a 64-it machine.
Tags: your computer, your Start button, 64-bit machine, applications your, applications your computer