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General discussion

Download 64-bit softwares

Mar 28, 2010 2:06PM PDT

I am planning to build a new computer tomorrow and am planning to instal Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit on it. I have checked the Windows 7 compatibility site and found that all my hardware is compatible with 64-bit.
Now coming to the software part, I usually download most of my softwares from download.com. Now my question is that if I want the 64-bit version of the software, how can I download it from download.com. I have found many softwares which in the same version supports both 32bit and 64bit. But what about the softwares which have different versions for 32 bit and 64bit?

Discussion is locked

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Depends...
Mar 29, 2010 4:55AM PDT

Most 32-bit Windows software can run flawlessly under 64-bit versions of Windows, so you can continue using most of the applications you already have. Those that have 64-bit versions usually list both on download.com, letting you choose which to download/install. (Just search for the name of the program to see all available versions.) While searching, as a general rule, the programs are designed for Windows x86 and compatible with Windows x64 unless otherwise stated.

Hope this helps,
John

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Thanks
Mar 29, 2010 2:13PM PDT

for the info.

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Let me add.
Mar 31, 2010 9:28PM PDT

I'm currently writing apps in the fairly new Visual Studio 2008 and along with that it looks like I can issue both 32 and 64 bit versions in the same installer.

It may take some time for developers to catch on that this is possible so always watch for what bit versions you download.
Bob

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Thanks
Apr 1, 2010 9:31PM PDT

In fact before downloading any software, I am first google(ing) the software's name + windows 7 64 bit. Then the search results points to various forums from where I get to know the compatibility issues with the 64 bit.