When we are going to add some software for the PC , the option to install in 32 or 64 bits is presented . Even when reviewing the equipment we can see that the processor uses one of these two attributes. So, you should check the Windows version installed on your PC. Therefore, in this tutorial we show you how to view this information with Linux.
Index( )
- Where can I see if my OS is 32-bit or 64-bit on Linux?
- from settings
- In the terminal
- How can I check if the processor is 32 or 64 bit in Linux from the terminal?
- What differences exist between using 32 or 64 bits?
- RAM memory management
- Ability to allocate virtual memory
Where can I see if my OS is 32-bit or 64-bit on Linux?
In the realm of computing , the core software, processor, applications, and drivers are either 32-bit or 64-bit architecture. The former refers to the x86 family, while the latter is known as x64. This means that all components can work in a balanced way on a common language.
Each of these denominations discloses the data storage mode . For this reason, a 32-bit architecture in a system saves all its elements in pieces of this value and unit. The larger the scale, the better the behavior and response of the system.
You may be interested in knowing the version installed on your PC. To achieve this, you must go to the configuration of your Linux computer. You can also find information about system attributes in the terminal. In any case, the result is the same and you will have to follow the steps that we show you below.
from settings
There is an easy option to discover all the features of your Linux PC. It is only necessary to access your desktop environment and click on the ‘Monitor’. There, several tabs are presented where you must select ‘System’. Immediately, you will be able to verify the name of the distribution, the version, aspects about the hardware and the software.
In the terminal
This is the most common tool that is used when consulting the type of system that a team has. The Linux console is similar to the Windows cmd. However, it has much more advanced features and allows users to control their computer through scripts.
How can I check if the processor is 32 or 64 bit in Linux from the terminal?
First, type the key combination ‘Ctrl +Alt +T’ to open the command console. Likewise, you can access this utility from the list of applications and, immediately, the prompt will open. Type uname –a press ‘Enter’. With this instruction you will see data about the kernel and the architecture of your processor.
If you have a Linux distribution based on Debian, you can use the dpkg command with which you will get the data you want to know. Another option from the terminal is to enter the command arch to display the system version . You can even type getconf LONG_BIT and it will return a number representing the architecture.
In case you want to see more details about the system and the CPU you should write the lscpu syntax including some options and parameters. However, you can just run the command without further attributes. Thus, you will find organized information about all the aspects that make up the processing unit .
What differences exist between using 32 or 64 bits?
There are some elements that you must take into account in order to distinguish the attributes of each version . In this regard, it is convenient to highlight the handling capacity of RAM memory. Also, it is worth knowing the limitations of the software regarding this component. Thus, you will make the best decision in terms of changing the operating system from 32 to 64 bits .
RAM memory management
32-bit systems cannot manage the same amount of memory as 64-bit computers. Regardless of the number of modules and the capacity of the RAM, the software will only take advantage of what is stipulated in its design. Therefore, it is recommended that you use a 64-bit Linux distribution if your CPU supports it.
Ability to allocate virtual memory
64-bit versions may increase virtual memory during execution. This is why there are variations in the response speed and performance of each application. A 32-bit architecture establishes 2 GB of RAM in each program. For its part, a 64-bit PC reaches 8TB, therefore, it is special for demanding software.