Windows: Determining 32-bit or 64-bit

General Information

This distinction has to do with the way the computer processes information in the CPU.  64-bit can handle large amounts of RAM more effectively.  To determine whether you are using a 32-bit or a 64-bit Operating System, follow the steps below.
 

Determine 32-bit or 64-bit Operating System 

1. Click the Start button.

2. Select This PC from the start menu.

3. Click the Properties button in the top left corner of the screen.

4. Check your system to see if it is 32-bit or 64-bit.

• If your Operating System is 32-bit:

  • Then to the right of System Type: You will see 32-bit Operating System.

• If your Operating System is 64-bit:

  • Then to the right of System Type: You will see 64-bit Operating System.

Further Resources

For more information on what the differences between these two types of systems, and the importance, please see the following article: 32-Bit vs. 64-Bit OSes: What's the Difference?

For help determining wihch version of Microsoft Office to install, please see the following link: Microsoft Support: Choose between the 64-bit or 32-bit version of Office
 

Referenced from: Microsoft.com and PCMag.com