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The Truth About 64-bit Software

By: Arthor Pens

In the past 3-5 years, a huge variety of 64-bit software has been produced by different companies. However, there has been much disappointment since often although the software may be run on a 64-bit machine, it may not utilize the power of 64-bit processing (the technical term is whether the software is native or not). So, what is "native 64-bit software"?

Two types of software exist – 64-bit software and 32-bit software. Both of them may be run under a 64-bit OS, but only ‘native 64-bit software may show higher processing speed. Only 32-bit applications can be run (at lower processing speeds) under a 32-bit OS.

Almost all 32-bit applications can be run on a 64-bit OS but they will not use all the advantages of the processor. The applications compiled for 64-bit platforms may not be run under 32-bit system but will definitely show a great speed improvement under a 64-bit OS compared with the same application but compiled for 32-bit platform.

What Is "64-bit Compatible"?

Every time you see "64-bit compatible" on a software vendor's website, it should be understood that the software will run under 64-bit OS as a 32-bit application. Consequently, there will be no speed improvement while running the application. Another case is when developer claims that the software is 64-bit native. Usually, when the application is built for 64-bit OS's and for 32-bit platforms, the download section o the website contains 32 and 64-bit executable files for different platforms.

If you have a 64 bit processor:
• You may not be utilizing its power by using software that is only 64 bit compatible – not 64 bit native

To check if the software is 64-bit native follow next steps:

• Try to type in the search box of the vendor's website "64-bit native" and find those phrases in the result of the search.
• Go to the download section and check if the software has different distributive's for different systems. (Eg. Winapp_32.exe and Winapp_64.exe)

Article Source: http://amazingarticles.co.uk

Go to www.64xsoft.com and search for the software on the website as it contains a list of 64 bit native software.

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