Beginning from Windows Vista, each editions of Windows operating system is available in both 32-bit and 64-bit versions (x86 and x64 are terms used by Microsoft), making the 64-bit OS option a widely available choice going forward. And with almost all CPU processor and motherboard nowadays is x64 based which capable of running 64-bit OS, it presents hard decision to consumers to decide and pick whether 32-bit or 64-bit versions of Windows Vista is suitable choice.

Microsoft publishes KB946765 which details the main differences between 32-bit and 64-bit Windows Vista, which mainly relate to memory accessibility, memory management, and enhanced security features, as listed in table below.

ArchitectureWindows Vista, 32-bit versionsWindows Vista, 64-bit versions
System requirements1-gigahertz (GHz) 32-bit (x86) processor or 64-bit (x64) processor,
512 MB of RAM		1-GHz 64-bit (x64) processor, 1 GB of RAM (4 GB recommended)
Memory accessA 32-bit version of Windows Vista can access up to 4 GB of RAM.A 64-bit version of Windows Vista can access from 1 GB of RAM to more than 128 GB of RAM.
Memory access per editionAll 32-bit versions of Windows Vista can access up to 4 GB of RAM.Windows Vista Home Basic – 8 GB of RAM
Windows Vista Home Premium – 16 GB of RAM
Windows Vista Business – 128 GB of RAM or more
Windows Vista Enterprise – 128 GB of RAM or more
Windows Vista Ultimate – 128 GB of RAM or more
DEP32-bit versions of Windows Vista use a software-based version of DEP.64-bit versions of Windows Vista support hardware-backed DEP.
Kernel Patch Protection (PatchGuard)This feature is not available in 32-bit versions of Windows Vista.This feature is available in 64-bit versions of Windows Vista. Kernel Patch Protection helps prevent a malicious program from updating the Windows Vista kernel. This feature works by helping to prevent a kernel-mode driver from extending or replacing other kernel services. Also, this feature helps prevent third-party programs from updating (patching) any part of the kernel.
Driver signingUnsigned drivers may be used with 32-bit versions of Windows Vista.64-bit versions of Windows Vista require that all device drivers be digitally signed by the developer.
32-bit driver support32-bit versions of Windows Vista support 32-bit drivers that are designed for Windows Vista.64-bit versions of Windows Vista do not support 32-bit device drivers.
16-bit program support32-bit versions of Windows Vista support 16-bit programs, in part.64-bit versions of Windows Vista do not support 16-bit programs.

If you value the benefits and advantages of switching and embracing 64-bit Windows Vista, here’s a few considerations to ponder before making the move to install x64 Windows Vista:

  • 64-bit device drivers may not be available for one or more devices in the computer.
  • Device drivers must be digitally signed.
  • 32-bit device drivers are not supported.
  • 32-bit programs may not be fully compatible with a 64-bit operating system.
  • It may be difficult to locate programs that are written specifically for a 64-bit operating system.
  • Not all hardware devices may be compatible with a 64-bit version of Windows Vista.

You May Also Interested In: