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

Whether y'all're running 32-fleck or 64-flake Windows makes a pretty big difference. Running a 64-bit version of Windows means having better security and the ability to use more than memory in your system. And, if you have a organization that supports it, making the switch from 32-fleck to 64-bit Windows is free—fifty-fifty if it does require a bit of work. We'll walk you lot through how to detect out whether you lot're running a 32-bit or 64-bit version of whatsoever version of Windows from XP through 10.

RELATED: What'south the Divergence Betwixt 32-fleck and 64-bit Windows?

Checking Your Version of Windows 10

To bank check whether yous're using a 32-flake or 64-bit version of Windows x, open the Settings app by pressing Windows+i, and then head to Organization > About. On the right side, look for the "System type" entry. Information technology will show yous two pieces of data—whether you lot're using a 32-bit or 64-chip operating system and whether yous accept a 64-fleck capable processor.

Checking Your Version of Windows 8

If y'all're running Windows 8, head to Control Panel > System. You can also hit Start and search for "system" to find the page rapidly. Wait for the "System type" entry to see whether your operating organisation and processor are 32-fleck or 64-scrap.

Checking Your Version of Windows vii or Vista

If you're using Windows seven or Windows Vista, hit Start, right-click "Computer," and then choose "Properties."

On the "Organisation" page, look for the "Arrangement type" entry to see whether your operating arrangement is 32-chip or 64-bit. Note that, unlike in Windows viii and ten, the "Organization type" entry in Windows 7 does non show whether your hardware is 64-bit capable.

Checking Your Version of Windows XP

There's almost no indicate in checking whether you're using a 64-bit version of Windows XP, because you're virtually definitely running a 32-flake version. Still, you lot can check by opening the Start bill of fare, right-clicking "My Figurer," and so clicking "Properties."

In the Organisation Backdrop window, head to the "General" tab. If yous're running a 32-bit version of Windows information technology won't say anything here other than "Microsoft Windows XP." If y'all're running a 64-flake version, it will be indicated on this window.

RELATED: Why Are Almost Programs Still 32-bit on a 64-bit Version of Windows?

Checking whether you're running 32-fleck or 64-bit is easy, and follows nigh the aforementioned process on any version of Windows. And one time you've figured it out, yous tin can decide whether you desire to employ 64-bit or 32-bit apps.