Wednesday, 9 December 2009

Resolving Windows 7 compatibility problems

If you’re trying to decide between a PC running a 32-bit version of Windows 7 or one with a 64-bit version of Windows 7, you might be concerned about the difference between 32-bit drivers and programs and 64-bit drivers and programs.

There’s no need to worry. Simply put, a computer running a 64-bit version of Windows 7 needs 64-bit drivers for all your hardware and devices. A driver is software that allows your computer to communicate with hardware devices. Without drivers, the devices you connect to your computer or install inside your computer won't work properly. In most cases, Windows can automatically find and install those 64-bit drivers for you by searching a huge database of drivers included in Windows and using Windows Update.

Unlike drivers, most programs designed for 32-bit versions of Windows work just fine on computers running a 64-bit version of Windows. (Notable exceptions are antivirus programs and so-called utility programs, where you might need a 64-bit version.)

Visit http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows7/help/compatibility

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