Do I need 64bit Win XP for a dual core 64 bit CPU?

[AlonsoF]

I didn't even think of it when I ordered my new system. I currently have the same copy of windows xp home I've had all along. Do I need to get 64 bit XP professional for my Athlon 64 X2 dual core processor to work? I'd hate to have to have to buy a retail copy.. argh
Thanks

[Sterling_Aug]

You can use Windows 95 if you really wanted to, but it would only run 32 bit mode on one processor.

What apps will you be using? Windows X64 64 bit OS would run the processors in the most efficient mode, but it may not be necessary in your case.

XP Home will run the dua cores in 32 bit mode and be just fine for most apps.

[mobo57]

The only advantage 64 bit XP has over 32 bit is the ability to use above 4 gig of memory. Other than that, there is no real advantage for most applications unless they are written for 64 bit os, and very few are. I have both on my main system and use the 64 bit side when I have large media files I need to work with in Adobe Production Studio. Unless it is a very large file(s), the 32 bit side is faster. Windoze 64 will run 32 bit programs utilizing WOW. Most seem to have no problem running in the 64 bit environment.
And then there is the issue of drivers. Not all hardware makers have 64 bit drivers/software. And for some of those that do, they may not have the full functionality of the 32 bit version. Example is ATI, the 64 bit package for the X series vid cards does not have the ability to use Crossfire, nor do they have AVIVO for 64 bit, yet that is.

[rockinup1231]

'Nother advantage is just plain speed...

[Midknyte]

XP64 is not faster than 32. Many 32bit apps will run SLOWER on x64 because it is running in the WOW shell.

unless you have a program that specifically calls for xp64, just get the 32bit.