32 or 64 bit?

[Nikki]

I, too, would like to download the virus patch, I have
Windows XP Pro. Is it the same as for XP Home? What
determines whether a system is 32 or 64 bit? How can you
tell?
Thank you very much.

 

[Mike Truitt [Microsoft]]

Hello all,

I will be posting this on several threads; however to tell if you have a
64-bit vs. a 32-bit computer, just run the System Information tool. (type
winmsd at in the Run box) If you have a 32-bit system, the "System Type"
listed should be something like"X86-based PC". If you have a 64-bit
system, you will see an entry stating something like "Itanium (TM) - based
PC". In addition, when looking at the processor(s) on the computer, a
32-bit system should start with x86 and a 64-bit will start with ia64.
(didn't check an AMD or other processors to see if they show different)

I also noticed that on the Windows 2003 Server I tested, that the winver
tool showed in the artwork that the OS was built for 64-bit hardware.
(don't remember the exact wording)

Best regards,

Mike Truitt
Microsoft Corporation

 

[Nikki]

Thank you. I appreciate your patience and the
explanation.