BleepingComputer.com: 32 bit or 64 bit - Is the 'bit' determinted by memory?

Inspiron 1721 had Vista Home Premium, 32 bit on it. The unit has 3 GB RAM. The Windows 7 upgrade came with two disks: a 32 bit version and a 64 bit version. What's the difference? Do I need the 32 bit because that's the 'bit' Vista had? Is the 64 bit better? And if so, do I need to have more memory for it? The machine will accommodate a total of 4 GB.

Thanks,
HomesickInTexas
(Sharon)

Well, first you might want to read this article from PC Pitstop: Windows 7 - 32 bit or 64 bit?.

This should help you understand the differences.


If you plan to do an "in place" upgrade, meaning essentially you will keep all of your system as it is and simply upgrade the OS from Vista to Win 7, you really do not have a choice - Vista 32 can only go to Win 7 32.

However, if you plan to completely replace everything on your system (backup your data first!!!), then you can install Win 7 64 bit or Win 7 32 bit on your system since your CPU can run either 32 or 64 bit OS.

You probably do not "need" additional RAM. Whether you want to upgrade the RAM or not will be up to you.

Does this help?

Yes, thanks, that answered my questions perfectly!

I appreciate it.
Sharon

Glad we could help Sharon.

I believe that's what the board is here for.

I may be back later to ask more questions. My laptop is at Dell for repairs and I'll be upgrading it to Windows 7 when it returns in about two weeks. I'm excited to get to know more about Windows 7.

Someone can close this thread for now.

Thanks again!
S.