This operating system includes everything XP Pro does with the addition of the ability to run 64–bit applications. XP Pro x64 can also run many 32–bit programs. It is rumored that Microsoft will release a 64-bit version of Vista, but it can not be confirmed on their Vista site.

With the right hardware this OS can utilize more virtual memory, access more paged files, use a bigger paging pool and benefit from a larger system cache, which results in faster processing.

Microsoft developed this OS for memory intensive and large data set calculations. They recommend this OS for people who work with large volumes of data such as application developers, engineers, animators and audio or music producers. It is also good for those that do complex 3D modeling, large scale engineering modeling and simulations. They also propose this OS for photo editors and gamers, but quite often they can do what they need on a 32–bit system.

This OS requires 64–bit drivers and compatible software and will overwrite previously installed versions. You have to use the Windows Migration Wizard if you do not want to lose your files and settings. Additionally, it can only work with kernel–mode drivers if they are a 64–bit native. 16–bit programs will not run with this OS, so if you like to use older programs; this is not a good choice for you.

They offer a trial page so you can test this OS and see if you will profit from upgrading. They also relate that if you can not immediately benefit from this OS, to wait for Vista and for 64–bit applications to become more common.

If you do not work with large data sets, we would recommend just sticking to XP Pro. To read the full review of Windows XP Professional, click here.