Ubuntu

Do I have to use 64 bit?

Asked by Mike Rose

I'm still unclear on this after reading the docs. I want to build (my first) ubuntu box. I am planning on buying a bare bones kit and it has a 64-bit processor. Do I have to use the 64 bit OS (with 3 GB of memory or less) or can I run the 32 bit? The download page seems to discourage the use of the 64-bit version for daily use. Can the 32-bit OS run on a 64 bit processor? Will I run into applications that won't run on the 64-bit OS?

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actionparsnip (andrew-woodhead666) said : 		#1

You can use either as 64bit CPUs can emulate 32bit ones. You can use either. 64bit is advised as 3rd party drivers and apps are more likely to succeed on 32bit but 64bit is no bad thing. If you intend to do a lot of audio and video encoding then 64bit will speed things up, otherwise 32bit will be fine.

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Marc Stewart (marc.stewart) said : 		#2

No, you don't have to use the 64-bit version; the 32-bit Ubuntu will run on a 64-bit processor just fine, but can only use the first ~3GB of memory, which is still plenty for most people.
And if you want to install Flash for sites like YouTube, etc., it's currently much easier for 32-bit (though hopefully that'll change before too much longer).

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Mike Rose (mjrose) said : 		#3

Thanks. Just curious - why does the download page say the 64-bit is "Not recommended for daily desktop usage"?

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Best actionparsnip (andrew-woodhead666) said : 		#4

As I said, companies (like brother and Lexmark) still only support 32bit. This happens with other companies. The good ones support 64bit too but its to reduce disappointment.

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Mike Rose (mjrose) said : 		#5

Thanks actionparsnip, that solved my question.