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Question: What are the differences between Windows 32-Bit and 64-Bit operating systems?
Answer: Software and hardware developers create drivers and software solutions based on specific versions of operating systems and whether the OS is 32-Bit or 64-Bit. 32-Bit versions of Windows XP/Vista/7 can utilize up to 3.5 GB of memory (RAM). 64-Bit versions of Windows can utilize 4+ GB of memory.
The consumer and POS markets have been built around 32-Bit versions of Windows since the 32-Bit version has been the predominant OS on the market for over a decade. With the release of Microsoft’s newest operating system, Windows 7 (has 32-Bit and 64-Bit versions), more computer manufacturers are loading Windows 7 with the 64-Bit version of the operating system.