In computing, 32-bit and 64-bit refer to the type of central processing unit, operating system, driver, software program, etc. that uses that particular architecture.

You've probably seen the option to download a piece of software as a 32-bit version or a 64-bit version. The difference does matter, because the two are programmed for separate systems.

A 64-bit system has a number of other advantages. The most practical advantage is the ability to use significantly more physical memory (more than the 4 GB allowed by a 32-bit machine).

A 64-bit processor can process 64 bits of data at a time, allowing information to be calculated faster, regardless of the processor's clock speed. It allows for greater memory utilization, since 32-bit processors can only access 232 addresses of RAM (all 32-digit binary numbers).