Tell the version of Windows XP (64-bits or 32-bits)

My laptop's CPU is the Intel P8600 (x86-64 architecture), and Dell pre-installed Windows XP SP3 on it.

However I am not sure if the version of Windows XP is the 64-bit version or the 32-bit version; can someone tell me how to find out the answer?

I am asking this because I want to install a proper JRE with good performance on my system.


from http://support.microsoft.com/kb/827218

Windows XP

If you have Windows XP, there are two methods to determine whether you are running a 32-bit or a 64-bit version. If one does not work, try the other.

Method 1: View System Properties in Control Panel

  1. Click Start, and then click Run.

  2. Type sysdm.cpl, and then click OK.

  3. Click the General tab. The operating system is displayed as follows:

    • For a 64-bit version operating system: Windows XP Professional x64 Edition Version (year) appears under System.
    • For a 32-bit version operating system: Windows XP Professional Version (year) appears under System.

Method 2: View System Information window

  1. Click Start, and then click Run.

  2. Type winmsd.exe, and then click OK.

  3. When System Summary is selected in the navigation pane, locate Processor under Item in the details pane. Note the value.

    • If the value that corresponds to Processor starts with x86, the computer is running a 32-bit version of Windows.
    • If the value that corresponds to Processor starts with ia64 or AMD64, the computer is running a 64-bit version of Windows.