Windows x64 Confusion

[DCypher]

Ok, so I have a K8N Neo2, an AMD 64, and now Windows Professional x64.

So here come the questions.

First, what kind of programs MUST I have that are 64-bit to run correctly. I was told I would need to find a 64-bit virus scan.....but why, doesn't it also support 32 bit applications (obviously it does). If the previous statement is true, then for what types of things do i NEED 64-bit programs for.

I installed 64 bit video, audio, and chipset drivers....did I need to download the chipset drivers? Would my 64 bits of bandwidth not, "kick in" until I did?

How can I make sure that my computer is in fact using the 64-bit bandwidth that it has?

Also, does x64 have the same windows updates as 32 bit windows, because i don't believe SP2 downloaded.

Thanks for the help anandtech, your what always gets me through!

 

[Doh!]

Basically any program that involves the use of drivers or heavey shell integration. You need x64 programs for firewall, anti-virus, virtual CD programs, certain hardware-related programs (i.e., scanners, printers, camera....). Your program will run in a 64-bit mode only if it was designed to run in that mode. If you have x64 OS & x64 program then it will run at 64.
How did you make sure that your computer was in fact using the 32-bit "bandwidth" that it once had previously?

 

[DCypher]

Alright, that helps some. What I meant by the one question was, I heard that BF2 has 64-bit support. I installed the game, but i didn't do anything special, so I am unsure about whether it is using 32 or 64.

Also, what about the Windows update question?

 

[imported_BikeDude]

Originally posted by: DCypher
so I am unsure about whether it is using 32 or 64.

Look for its process in Task Manager. If TM displays "*32" after the process name, it isn't a 64-bit executable.

Also, what about the Windows update question?

64-bit XP comes with SP2 and the Windows Update site should realise you're running the x64 version (and offer you the correct updates). The update site will require you to run 32-bit IE (don't worry, if you're running 64-bit IE it will prompt you to launch the 32-bit IE as needed).

 

[DCypher]

Thanks a lot for the task manager answer, thats helps greatly. Thank you all for your information.

 

[Canterwood]

Originally posted by: BikeDude
64-bit XP comes with SP2

Its actually comes with Service Pack 1, but you're correct in a way as its equivalent to the 32bit XP SP2 in regards to the security tweaks and updates.

 

[severtki]

All that sounds like a lot more effort than it's worth to me... I was thinking of jumping over to x64 but I think I'll continue to wait it out a while longer.

Thanks!