How to find out if your Processor is 64-bit or 32-bit

Usually when installing a Linux distro you have the option to install either 32-bit or 64-bit. This quick guide will help you choose whether you are currently on linux, Windows or Mac OSX.

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Is your Processor 64-bit or 32-bit?

Ubuntu / Linux

If your current OS is Ubuntu, or another Linux Distro, your can run the following command in the terminal (Ctrl+Alt+t) to check compatibiltiy.

lscpu | grep mode

The output will specify which CPU mode(s) are compatible, the output below shows that both 32-bit and 64-bit are compatible with this CPU.

CPU op-mode(s): 32-bit, 64-bit

Windows Vista / 7

Press the Windows key + e then select System Properties along the top of the window.

If under 'System' it says 'System type: 64-bit Operating System' then you have a 64-bit compatible Processor.

If it says 'System type: 32-bit Operating System' you then need to dig a bit deeper to get your answer. Select 'Windows Experience Index' --> under the 'Base score' click 'View and Print detailed performance and system information'. A new window will open, under 'System' you will see '64-bit capable' with either 'Yes' or 'No'.

Windows XP

Open the run dialogue box by pressing the 'Windows Key' + r type in 'cmd' then click 'OK', this will open up the command prompt.

Enter the following code then hit Enter, the first line of output will state either 64 bit or 32 bit.

wmic os get osarchitecture

Mac OS (Intel-Based)

On Mac OS find the Processor Name in the Hardware Overview located by navigating to Apple menu --> About This Mac --> More Info

Locate the Processor Name in the table below to see whether it is a 64-bit or 32-bit Processor.