Do you know about your system (processor) version? The new generation computers are 64 bit. But there are still available the 32 bit machines as well. Where the 64 bit computers support both the 32 bit and 64 bit operating systems, the 32 bit computers only support 32 bit OS. 64 bit operating systems are more advanced than the 32 bit Operating systems [Learn more about 32 bit and 64 bit version of Windows].
However, if you are going to buy a operating system, you must know which version is supported by your computer hardware. Here is how to know about the computer.
How to know the computer version
Infact, the version of a computer means the version of the processor. So you can determine your computer version by checking the processor family. The X-86 family processors are of 32 bit and X-64 family processors are 64 bit architecture. You can easily determine that from the device manager.
In Windows 7
If you are using Windows 7, type “device manager” at the start menu search box and hit Enter.
The device manager window appears. Find out the entry “Processors” and expand it by clicking on the ‘+’ sign (in case of multiple processors). This will list all the processors you have. Right click on a processor and select “Properties”.
In the next window, flip to “Details” tab. Select “Hardware id” From the “Property” dropdown menu.
That’s all! you can find your processor family there.
In Windows XP
If you are using windows XP, similarly you can know about the processor family from the device manager. To open device manager go to Control Panel > Performance and Maintenance > System > Hardware > Device Manager .
Very informative sir, i’ll be following most of your tips as this would help me in my current job 🙂
For windows vista you can find it under system in control panel.
@Chukwudi: Thanks
Thanks for the article. It is helpful.
Actually, the newest processors support both 32bit and 64bit architecture.
It is possible to install both types on Windows 7.