RAM Memory Limits for Windows XP 64 Bit

Memory chips are used by the computer to store temporary data.

Random access memory (RAM) is used by computers to store temporary data. One of the major features of 64-Bit Windows XP is an increase in the total RAM the computer is able to use.

RAM and Computer Speed

Adding more RAM to a computer can often increase its total speed by giving the computer more space to work with. If a program uses a large amount of memory and fills up all of the RAM space available, it can slow down immensely. This is one of the reasons why 64-Bit Windows XP is able to outperform older versions.

32-Bit Physical Memory Limits

A 32-bit operating system is usually limited to a maximum of 4 gigabytes of physical memory. This isn't a limit to RAM specifically, but the total memory reserved by hardware on the computer, including things like video cards as well as RAM. As computers have progressed, this has become a severe limiting factor. Luckily, 64-bit operating systems, such as 64-Bit Windows XP, increase this limit considerably.

64-Bit Windows XP Physical Memory Limits

The 64-Bit Windows XP system has raised the total possible physical memory from 4 gigabytes to 128 gigabytes. Keep in mind, however, that total usable RAM may still be limited by the motherboard or BIOS. Check the documentation that came with your motherboard to see how much RAM it can support.

References

• Microsoft: Memory Limits for Windows Releases