[NTLUG:Discuss] 64/32 question

[Chris Cox]

Fred wrote:
> What are the relative merits of running 32-bit Linux
> on a dual core (or dual processor... is that the same 
> thing?) computer vs 64-bit? 

Can be.  The are kernel options that are specific
to 64bit and some of those are are also processor
specific.

BUT, for the most part... and for most people, there
won't be any benefit.

Main benefit has to do with amount of memory that
a process can directly address.  But most don't have
that much memory.  If you have 4GB, 64bit will allow
you to see it all... where you'll lose a bit under
32bit.

> 
> Some reports show that the 64-bit systems run
> some programs really fast but others have very little
> real difference. I also hear that the 64-bit systems are
> not yet fully developed and there are myriad pitfalls
> waiting. OK, not the kernel, just all those other programs
> that are in the package. The opensuse list is full of stories 
> documenting many hours of what I see as unnecessary 
> farting around with stuff that is supposed to work out of the box.

Yes... it could well be that some code will take advantage
of 64bit, so obviously, it will be faster.

SUSE did a lot of the groundwork on AMD 64bit Linux.
SUSE was one of the first distributions to come up with
a way of having a seamless 32/64 environment.  With that
said, a 32bit ONLY application may have issues with some
64bit applications.  Consider a browser plugin for example.
If you want 64bit firefox, but the plugin you want to
use (e.g. flash) is 32bit only, then some hackery is
necessary.

My own experience is that 64bit firefox works for the vast
majority of people.  However I also know that there are
flash issues and Java issues that might make you pull
out your hair.... YMMV.   So for me, I run a 32bit firefox,
but most will say (sometimes adamantly) that all is
perfect with 64bit firefox.  I'll bank on my own personal
experience... thank you very much!

> 
> I am considering upgrading my hardware and if a 32-bit
> system will install on it, then that is what I am leaning
> toward. I could always install a 64-bit system on it later.

It's possible that ONLY a 64bit install will work in
certain hardware configurations... though we might not
be quite there yet.

> 
> 
> Thoughts?
> 
> Fred

Most of my machines are now 64bit.  Just the minor firefox
nuisance IMHO.