News Computers Microsoft Will Phase Out 32-bit Versions of Windows 10 Here's What You Need to Do by Senior News Editor Rob LeFebvre has been a freelance technology writer for 10 years and an educator for 20. His articles have appeared in 148Apps, Cult of Mac, Engadget, and many others. our editorial process Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Rob LeFebvre Published May 15, 2020 02:59PM EDT Computers Phones Internet & Security Computers Smart & Connected Life Home Theater Software & Apps Social Media Streaming Gaming View More Tweet Share Email No need to panic, but updating your Windows 10 to 64-bit is a smart move, and pretty easy to do. The Windows 10 (Anniversary Update) desktop. Microsoft has begun the process of ending support for 32-bit versions of Windows 10, starting with the 2004 version of the popular operating system. Microsoft says: "Beginning with Windows 10, version 2004, all new Windows 10 systems will be required to use 64-bit builds and Microsoft will no longer release 32-bit builds for OEM distribution," wrote the company in its documentation. Earlier versions of Windows will continue to get 32-bit support, however, as the hardware included typically won't support 64-bit code. 32-Bit vs. 64-Bit: What's the Difference? Advantages of 64-bit: A 64-bit processor can handle 64 bits of data at once, which lets it process information faster than a 32-bit processor. This lets it use more memory, for example, and allows your computer to be more precise, as well; pixels can be colored and placed more accurately, for example, than they can be on a 32-bit computer. What to do: First, you need to see which version of Windows 10 your machine can handle. If you can, you'll next want to upgrade your 64-bit capable PC to the 64-bit version of Windows 10. Then you'll be ready for the changeover in support, assuming you have a 2004 or later copy of Windows 10. Via: The Guru of 3D Learn More About Windows 10 Decoded: Windows Version & Build Numbers Need the Power of Windows 10 Pro? Follow These Simple Steps to Upgrade Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day Email Address Sign up There was an error. Please try again. You're in! Thanks for signing up. There was an error. Please try again. Thank you for signing up. Tell us why! Other Not enough details Hard to understand Submit