What does 64-bit mean?

What it means

A bit is the smallest piece of computer data. A 64-bit processor works with data in chunks of 64 bits and can address far more memory than a 32-bit one. A 32-bit program can use at most about 4 gigabytes, and a 32-bit copy of Windows sees little more than 3. That is too little for most current business software.

The operating system and the programs must be 64-bit as well to benefit. Both common processor families, x86 and ARM, come in 64-bit versions. 64-bit Windows still runs most older 32-bit programs, but current macOS does not run them at all.

Why it matters to a business

• Memory: databases, virtual machines, design tools and large spreadsheets need more memory than a 32-bit system can address.
• Current software: Windows 11 only comes in a 64-bit edition, and many software vendors have dropped their 32-bit versions.
• Old 32-bit only software: a program that only exists in 32-bit form may stop working after an upgrade, or may not install at all on newer systems.
• Drivers and devices: an old scanner, label printer or machine controller may rely on a 32-bit driver that has no 64-bit replacement.

How this shows up in our work

Before a hardware refresh or a migration, we inventory the applications a business relies on and check each one against the hardware and operating system it will run on. Where a 32-bit program has no replacement, we look at keeping it alive inside a virtual machine on Proxmox VE or another contained setup, so the other systems can still be upgraded.

Learn more

• 64-bit computing on WikipediaA neutral overview of what 64-bit means and how it differs from 32-bit.
• x86 on WikipediaBackground on the processor family in most business PCs and servers, including its 64-bit form.