Quote: Originally Posted by
acheryl 
It was not my plan to buy 64 bit Vista Home Premium but I did. I keep reading scary stuff. Presumably the hardware drivers that come with the machine work
but are there things to look for? Will my software work? 64 bit is a new world for me.
I need some directions please. My plan was to use it as a server but a working server in that if I were in the same room I could use it as a computer. Thanks.
AMG Phenom 9100e quad core processor
4 GB DDR2 dual channel memory
640 GB hard drive
You've got yourself a very nice mach there, Acheryl. I myself am using the Phenom 9600 Quad.
But to answer your question, there's all that much visual/operational difference between x86 and x64 versions of Vista, except perhaps that Vista x64 can use more memory, and performs alot better because of better memory management and the enforcement of signed drivers.
The one issue you'll likely encounter is with the installation of some older software. If a program is 32-Bit, but uses a 16-Bit installer program, then you will not be able to use that program. 16-Bit programs are not supported by Windows Vista x64.
Other than that, most 32-bit software written for XP will work without problems on Vista x64. Some of them may require the use of compatibility mode, or the installation of an update, but you shouldn't have any problems.