[PLUG] 32 versus 64 bit reading list suggestions

[Ben Koenig]

Something to note that most of the improvements offered by x86_64 are 
for developers and computer scientists. The reason AMD's implementation 
became dominant is because their x86_64 bit implementation can 
seamlessly execute 64bit OR 32bit code natively. Intel's solution 
involved switching into some sort of compatibility layer that slowed 
programs down. If you are interested you can read up on the early days 
of x86 processor development, the 4GB memory limit imposed by 32bit 
processors, and why AMD's architecture became the industry standard for 
x86 processors.


That said, YOU, the "user" or "layman" are unlikely to notice anything 
significant when moving to a 64bit linux distro. For certain 
applications you may see performance improvements but the basic 
functionality of the OS will likely remain exactly the same. This was 
part of AMD's design philosophy for the early Athlon 64 processors and 
was adopted by Intel.


Since the OP requested reading material, here's debian's wiki page 
regarding multilib configuration.

https://wiki.debian.org/Multiarch


As a rule of thumb, everyone should upgrade to a 64bit distro. The only 
exception to this rule is if you have a SPECIFIC reason to stay on 32bit 
such as a precompiled application.


Hope that helps. Generally the best place to start looking for 
information about the 32/64 transition is with the documentation 
provided by your distro. Most provide some sort of wiki article or howto 
for making the switch. Unless you play video games I very much doubt 
that it will change the way you use your computer.

-Ben


On 9/7/20 11:30 AM, Rich Shepard wrote:
> On Mon, 7 Sep 2020, Richard Owlett wrote:
>
>> Your phrasing suggests I mis-phrased my question. For a non-geek enduser
>> what difference would there be except for possible faster response?
>
> Perhaps none? I've no idea what you do with your systems; regarless, 
> nothing
> will be lost if you do change.
>
> Rich
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