Figuring out whether yous're running a 32-bit or 64-bit version of Windows only takes a couple of steps and the tools are already built into Windows. Here's how to discover out what you're running.

Whether y'all're running 32-chip or 64-fleck Windows makes a pretty large departure. Running a 64-scrap version of Windows means having better security and the ability to employ more retention in your system. And, if you have a system that supports it, making the switch from 32-chip to 64-fleck Windows is free—fifty-fifty if information technology does require a flake of piece of work. Nosotros'll walk you through how to find out whether you're running a 32-bit or 64-bit version of any version of Windows from XP through x.

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

Checking Your Version of Windows ten

To cheque whether you're using a 32-fleck or 64-bit version of Windows 10, open the Settings app past pressing Windows+i, then head to System > About. On the correct side, look for the "System type" entry. It will show you lot two pieces of information—whether you're using a 32-flake or 64-bit operating organization and whether you have a 64-chip capable processor.

Checking Your Version of Windows viii

If you're running Windows viii, caput to Control Panel > System. You tin too striking Commencement and search for "arrangement" to find the page quickly. Wait for the "Organisation blazon" entry to run into whether your operating organization and processor are 32-flake or 64-bit.

Checking Your Version of Windows 7 or Vista

If yous're using Windows seven or Windows Vista, striking Start, right-click "Figurer," and and then cull "Properties."

On the "System" page, await for the "Arrangement blazon" entry to see whether your operating system is 32-bit or 64-chip. Note that, unlike in Windows 8 and 10, the "System type" entry in Windows 7 does not evidence whether your hardware is 64-scrap capable.

Checking Your Version of Windows XP

There'south virtually no point in checking whether you're using a 64-bit version of Windows XP, because you're almost definitely running a 32-fleck version. However, you can check by opening the Start menu, correct-clicking "My Reckoner," and then clicking "Properties."

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

RELATED: Why Are Most Programs All the same 32-bit on a 64-bit Version of Windows?

Checking whether yous're running 32-chip or 64-scrap is like shooting fish in a barrel, and follows well-nigh the same process on whatever version of Windows. And once you lot've figured it out, you can decide whether you lot desire to use 64-bit or 32-bit apps.