Microsoft about to ditch 32-bit Windows 10 Version: Discontinues Offering it to PC Makers

Microsoft decided to stop offering 32-bit Windows 10 versions to OEM computer manufacturers. It means that the operating system Windows 10 Version 2004 will be available only for a 64-bit system build. If there’s a computer with a 32-bit Windows 10 operating system in your acquisition, then you must be curious to know — Will Microsoft support your existing 32-bit Windows 10 device?

Well, it will, at least, for now. However, Microsoft has updated its device requirement where it has clearly stated the minimum hardware needs. Windows 10 is available for both — 32-bit and 64-bit system builds. They might appear almost identical, but there’s a fine line between them.

Here’s what you need to explore – the facts regarding Microsoft’s step towards the 32-bit architecture of the computer industry.

What does the Hardware Requirement from Microsoft Say?

Putting an end to the 32-bit build support is nothing new that the world has witnessed. According to the experts of Microsoft Surface Repair, Google, Apple, and Redmond have taken similar steps to upgrade the system support for 64-bit. As the world is advancing, it’s not unexpected that we won’t experience a transition from the 32-bit era to 64-bit one.

Finally, Microsoft has joined hands with the leading companies. And, as Microsoft prefers 64-bit architecture, thus the 32-bit one had to come to a dead end. The upcoming Windows 10 versions would be completely free from the 32-bit versions. The journey starts with Windows 10 Version 2004. Additionally, Microsoft stated that it is not going to distribute 32-bit builds for PC manufacturers.

Moreover, the company has added that every new Windows 10 version will require 64-bit builds from now onwards. Microsoft has even elaborated the entire hardware requirements in that published documentation.

Like Microsoft, Apple discontinued support for applications with 32-bit builds for macOS Catalina in 2020. Additionally, Google decided to make a similar move in January 2020. However, the results started appearing this year.

Google even asked the application developers to switch to the 64-bit build system for a more sustainable ecosystem. So, Microsoft is not the only one withdrawing support for 32-bit applications or operating systems or demanding a 64-bit ecosystem.

Why do Industrial Leaders support 64-bit Builds?

To get the answer, we need to dive a bit more into the architecture of computers and their fundamentals. Are you aware? Does your PC have a 32-bit or a 64-bit processor? You might have noticed such tags while downloading any application on your PC. The real difference between these two builds remains in the capability of handling data. So, the bit preference does matter, and the 64-bit builds are more powerful than the 32-bit ones.

Well, the difference is not twice when you compare both builds. 32-bit processors can handle 2^32 memory addresses. When it comes to a 32-bit processor, you can assign a physical memory of 4 GB RAM or go even less. The issue with low-capacity RAM is that the overhead might increase while transferring data between the CPU and other components. As a consequence, any application on a 32-bit processor can take an eternity to run on your PC.

We are sure that you won’t like that. Additionally, programs are getting advanced day by day. Most of the manufacturers and developers are now deploying 64-bit programs, even on smartphones. You can clearly imagine the stress over such a low-capacity RAM that is stuck in the data transmission, back and forth to the CPU. To overcome a memory limitation situation like this, upgrading to a higher-bit processor is the only option.

How does a 64-bit Processor Make the Difference?

As you have already discovered, Microsoft has mentioned its hardware requirements, and it should be a 64-bit build instead of a 32-bit. 64-bit processors are capable of tackling 2^64 memory addresses. Indeed, it is four billion times the physical memory than that of a 32-bit processor. When it comes to the Windows environment, a 64-bit processor would require more than 4GB of RAM.

A greater value of RAM signifies better capability. The system can perform without much hassle, and the operating system can access more memory. This fact has inspired numerous leaders in the computation industry to introduce 64-bit builds as basic requirements. Apple took the first initiative to launch a 64-bit operating system in 2009, namely Mac OS X Snow Leopard. And, its first smartphone was the iPhone 5s that came up with a 64-bit processor.

Coming back to Microsoft, when you consider a 32-bit architecture, the maximum available RAM is 4 GB. However, 64-bit architecture can have a RAM of 8 GB and even higher. Nowadays, complicated programs such as high-quality graphics applications, AAA games, etc., might require more RAM capacity to operate without any flaw.

When the program technologies are upgrading, why not the operating system and processor? To keep things at the same pace and technologically equipped, leaders are preferring 64-bit processors and operating system versions rather than 32-bit ones. You can switch to a 64-bit system for the following reasons or benefits:

• Improved memory support
• Efficient PC performance
• Enhanced software capabilities
• Updated security features

Which one is Better: 32-bit or 64-bit Operating System?

Just like processors, operating systems are majorly categorised into 32-bit and 64-bit operating system versions. 32-bit operating systems can store a maximum of 4 GB RAM, and it’s similar to the 32-bit processors’ function. Whereas 64-bit operating systems are capable of tackling and storing 18-Quintillion GB of RAM. When it comes to system compatibility, then you have to be quite sure.

If your computer owns a 64-bit processor, then you can install any of the 32-bit or 64-bit operating systems. The processor won’t oppose it. But, vice versa is not true. For instance, you can install a 64-bit operating system on a 64-bit processor only. The 32-bit processor might not show any error while installing the 64-bit operating system version. But, the processor can’t let the operating systems run at their fullest capacity.

On the other hand, the performance metrics are different for these two operating system classes. 32-bit processors are less efficient than 64-bit ones. Further, 64-bit processor PCs will allow diverse 32-bit programs and operating systems. But, some of the 32-bit programs might fail, as well. Therefore, it is always recommended to check the processor and operating systems’ specifications before installing any program on your PC.

How to Identify the Build of your Windows PC?

If you’re still not sure about your system build of Windows PC, then don’t worry. Here are the guidelines that would detect your system build. Here’s what you need to follow:

1. Click on the Start button. Or, select the Search icon and then type System.
2. When the Programs list appears, choose System.
3. If the operating system shows up as a 64-bit operating system, then the processor must probably be a 64-bit processor.
4. In case it’s a 32-bit operating system, then sneak into the System information to discover whether the build is 32-bit or 64-bit.

What to Expect Next?

Admit it or not, Windows 10 version 2004 with support towards a 32-bit processor had several disadvantages. Users of 32-bit Windows 10 users have complained about PC freezing or similar issues more often. Apart from memory limitations, compromised security aspects are one of the most crucial concerns. However, Microsoft has stopped providing the 32-bit Windows 10 version to OEM distributors.

It simply means that PC manufacturers have to discard the idea of developing 32-bit processors. Otherwise, the 64-bit Windows 10 version 2004 won’t fit the processor requirements. Yet, not all Windows 10 versions are under the transition phase. We can expect all the Windows 10 versions to be converted and work perfectly with 64-bit system builds.

Yeah, it will take time. But, for sure, the 32-bit build will become extinct in the upcoming future. You can expect only 64-bit architecture PCs to come up in the market from now.

Will it Affect the Existing PCs with 32-bit Builds?

Microsoft has made it clear that the existing 32-bit PC won’t suffer from the current decision. The authority has confirmed that it would continue offering every kind of support for the 32-bit builds. There will be some selected channels from which you can still buy a retail copy of 32-bit Windows 10.

However, the decision might have some impact on 32-bit PCs in the long run. The chip makers or vendors would now concentrate on constructing 64-bit processors. So, those 32-bit CPUs will remain neglected. Furthermore, you might not find support, both hardware, and software, for your 32-bit PC.

Well, now almost every PC comes with the support for 64-bit processors and operating systems. So, it will be a better choice if you decide to go with a 64-bit processor. If you’re thinking about a new laptop or desktop purchase, then you should better go with 64-bit builds.

Rest assured, nothing bad will happen to the existing 32-bit architecture devices. At least, we are hopeful about that unless and until Microsoft declares any new changes. Microsoft promised to provide support and security patches for 32-bit Windows 10 version 2004 in its last declaration. We think the company is in no hurry to discard 32-bit Windows 10 or the entire 32-bit processor timeline. After all, it’s a slow and steady process.

Overall, the Step Looks Beneficial….

At least, for the sake of advancement, it is. According to the latest surveys, only 0.2% of Windows 10 users currently utilize 32-bit Windows 10 versions. Whereas more than 86% of Windows 10 users rely on 64-bit Windows 10 versions. So, we can expect the demise of 32-bit Windows 10 versions at any time. And, this declaration of Microsoft is just the beginning. Finally, it would be a wiser decision to switch to 64-bit in case you haven’t already.