• Windows Vista x64, also known as “Windows Vista 64-bit,” is a variation of the Windows Vista operating system. While Windows Vista x64 is similar to a 32-bit version of Windows Vista in terms of appearance, the former features several unique features that the latter does not offer. These features include full support for 64-bit processors, the ability to support more system memory as well as advanced security features.
  
  

64-Bit Processor Support

• Windows Vista x64 supports processors using the x64 architecture. The 32-bit versions of Windows Vista can also run on computers with 64-bit processors, but the benefits of the x64 architecture will be unavailable. However, Windows Vista 64-bit cannot run on 32-bit processors, so users looking to upgrade to a 64-bit version of Windows Vista will also have to upgrade to a 64-bit processor and a 64-bit compatible motherboard. A 64-bit processor is faster than a 32-bit processor, so running Windows Vista x64 with a 64-bit processor in tandem can be highly advantageous. All versions of Windows Vista x64 support both Intel and AMD x64 processors.
  
  

Additional System Memory

• Windows Vista x64 supports up to 128 GB (gigabytes) or more of system memory, which is more commonly known as RAM (random access memory). This is a significant improvement over 32-bit versions of Windows Vista, which only supports up to 4 GB of RAM. This creates additional benefits for users intending to run multiple programs that require a large amount of RAM to function properly simultaneously. As of 2010, there are no computers that have the ability to support more than 128 GB of RAM, but when that becomes a possibility, Windows Vista x64 will be able to support it without requiring any more software updates.
  
  

Advanced Security

• Windows Vista x64 provides the user with more security than what a 32-bit version of Windows Vista could offer. According to “Supersite for Windows,” all versions of Windows Vista x64 require hardware and software drivers to be digitally signed by the software developer. Unsigned drivers cannot be installed, which is not the case with 32-bit versions of Windows Vista where users have the ability either to abort or to proceed with the installation. Another feature which provides additional protection in Windows Vista x64 is the “Kernel Patch Protection,” which prevents any kind of malware from patching the Windows Vista kernel. As of 2010, most types of computer viruses are incompatible with 64-bit operating systems, which is another advantage that Windows Vista x64 users can benefit from until malware creators start making 64-bit compatible viruses.