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I was just wondering what the benefits (and disbenefits) of the 64bit version of Windows XP are.

Currently running on an Athlon 64 (3200) and if there is no disbenefit then Ill probably give it a go :)

Disadvantages:

It wont run any 16 bit software
There will be some applications that wont work properly
Driver support for external peripherals such as printers, scanners and webcams is still pretty thin on the ground
Still not very many AV vendors that support it

Advantages:

Support for amounts of memory larger than 4GB
No longer a 2GB per process memory limitation
Marginally faster imo
Most 32 bit applications work
Most of the games that I tried worked

That just about sums up my experience with it. There is no real benefit in using it over standard Windows tbh.

Quote from: NorphyDisadvantages:
It wont run any 16 bit software

True

QuoteThere will be some applications that wont work properly

Its very short, still some issues with winar and winzip even with the 64 bit versions and explorer.exe, but most things work now.

QuoteDriver support for external peripherals such as printers, scanners and webcams is still pretty thin on the ground

It is silly, my wireless MICROSOFT mouse doesnt have drivers so i cant use the tilt wheel, how stupid is that!

QuoteStill not very many AV vendors that support it

I think its at decent levels now

Advantages:

QuoteSupport for amounts of memory larger than 4GB

It runs really smooth with 2 gig.

QuoteNo longer a 2GB per process memory limitation

The only thing that still runs crap in terms of running processes is windows explorer(explorer.exe) i swear it has a memory leak, it gets bigger and bigger. End task and restart sorts it, but its a pain.

QuoteMost 32 bit applications work

More and more have a 64bit version now

QuoteMost of the games that I tried worked

Worst i have had was battlefield 2 saying its not been tested, thats it.

How about dual booting 32 & 64 bit versions? that should work ok right? :)

Yeah, no problem there.