Figuring out whether you're running a 32-bit or 64-flake version of Windows but takes a couple of steps and the tools are already built into Windows. Here'south how to observe out what you're running.

Whether yous're running 32-bit or 64-flake Windows makes a pretty big difference. Running a 64-bit version of Windows means having better security and the ability to utilize more memory in your system. And, if you accept a system that supports it, making the switch from 32-bit to 64-fleck Windows is gratis—even if information technology does require a bit of piece of work. We'll walk you through how to notice out whether yous're running a 32-fleck or 64-bit version of whatsoever version of Windows from XP through ten.

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

Checking Your Version of Windows 10

To check whether you're using a 32-bit or 64-bit version of Windows 10, open the Settings app by pressing Windows+i, so caput to System > About. On the right side, wait for the "System type" entry. It will show you two pieces of information—whether yous're using a 32-fleck or 64-bit operating system and whether you accept a 64-bit capable processor.

Checking Your Version of Windows 8

If you're running Windows 8, head to Control Panel > Organisation. You lot can besides hitting Start and search for "system" to observe the folio quickly. Look for the "Arrangement type" entry to meet whether your operating organization and processor are 32-bit or 64-bit.

Checking Your Version of Windows seven or Vista

If you're using Windows seven or Windows Vista, hit Start, right-click "Computer," and then choose "Backdrop."

On the "System" page, wait for the "System type" entry to run into whether your operating system is 32-flake or 64-fleck. Annotation that, dissimilar in Windows viii and 10, the "System type" entry in Windows 7 does not show whether your hardware is 64-bit capable.

Checking Your Version of Windows XP

There's almost no point in checking whether you lot're using a 64-bit version of Windows XP, because you're well-nigh definitely running a 32-chip version. However, you lot can check past opening the Start menu, right-clicking "My Estimator," and and then clicking "Properties."

In the Organization Properties window, head to the "General" tab. If you're running a 32-bit version of Windows it won't say anything here other than "Microsoft Windows XP." If yous're running a 64-scrap version, it will be indicated on this window.

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

Checking whether you're running 32-fleck or 64-fleck is easy, and follows nearly the same procedure on whatever version of Windows. And one time yous've figured it out, you lot tin can decide whether yous desire to use 64-chip or 32-scrap apps.