Determine whether or not I can install a 64-bit operating system (Linux) from the BIOS

My Windows XP installation has become unusable for some unknown reason. Since Microsoft is going to end support in a few days anyway, I decided to install Linux Mint.

For optimal hardware utilization, I want to use a 64-bit system if possible. However, since XP isn't working it's not possible to determine whether or not I can use a 64-bit OS in the usual ways.

Therefore, I want to use the BIOS to find it out.

What information in the BIOS should I use to determine whether or not my I can install a 64-bit operating system?

Solution 1:

Look up the processor model in the BIOS. Then search on the internet for that processor's specifications.

If you have an Intel processor, you can search their products web site.

If your processor has a 64-bit instruction set it can be used to run a 64-bit operating system.