Fundamentally, 64-bit computing is a function of the CPU. A 64-bit processor can work with 64-bit chunks of data in a single operation, while a 32-bit processor can work with values of only half that length. An OS designed to make use of the extra capabilities of a 64-bit CPU can thus achieve better performance and support more memory than a 32-bit OSRead more: Why bother with 64-bit Windows? | Analysis | Features | PC Pro http://www.pcpro.co.uk/features/350609/why-bother-with-64-bit-windows#ixzz2SLcxW0zJ