linux - Is it possible to install CentOS 64-bit on a 32-bit machine?

07
2014-07
  • S.J. Lim

    Question is same as the title.

    Is it possible? If not, I would like to know why. Please explain.

    • Answers
  • kinokijuf

    No, it is not possible.

    A 32 bit machine refers to a computer with an ancient 32 bit only CPU. (On a modern PC that is usually a 10+ year old computer. Anything more modern and not configured for ultra-low power has a 64 bit capable CPU).

    A 64 bit machine is a a computer with a CPU with usually supports both the old 32 both mode and the 64 bit mode of operations.

    Now of you try to install a regular 64 bit OS on an old computer which does not have the modern 64 bit instructions then it will simply not run. It is as if the OS speaks in a language which is not understood by the CPU. It will simply not be understood.


    [Edit] Two notes:

    1. This is true for any 64 bit OS.
    2. I specifically mentioned machine as in the hardware. David is right that if you have 64 bit hardware and currently use a 32 bit OS then you can wipe the old OS and install a new one (either 32 or 64 bit).
  • locobastos

    You can't install 64bits system on 32 bits machine.

    64 Bits & 32 Bits are related to the processor.

    64 Bits processor doesn't work like 32 bits processor. 64 Bits OS would like to use some specific stuff 32 Bits processor doesn't have like new programming variables...

    CentOS 64 Bits would like to use these new variable on 32 Bits processor, but this last don't have these new variable => System crash => System not compatible


    • Related Question

    linux - Installing CentOS on remote machine?
  • vijay.shad

    Can I do a fresh install of CentOS Linux on a remote machine?

    I have a machine with Windows NT in a remote location. Now I want to use that system as my deployment machine. To proceed with my plan I need to install a Linux OS (have chosen CentOS). The guy there with the machine is not very knowledgeable of the installation process of any OS. So I thought I could install CentOS remotely.

    Can you give me some insight on how I can achieve this?


    • Related Answers
  • quack quixote

    Look into kickstart installations. Kickstart is an automated installation method for RedHat-based distributions. You create a kickstart file that describes the install options you want. You'll have to configure a network installation or roll-your-own install CD, but with Kickstart all you'd do is mail a DVD to the guy in the server room and have him boot the CD. He might have to type in a particular boot command, but if you set it up right the rest will be automated.

  • sybreon

    Assuming that the remote guy isn't very familiar with Linux, your best bet would be to send him a working CentOS install. If you are within a reachable geographical location, you could install CentOS into an existing machine and then post the harddisk over to the remote guy who can then just replace into the NT machine.

    If the remote location is truly far away, you can send over a disk image on a DVD and have him rawrite the disk image onto the existing NT harddisk overwriting all contents. Alternatively, you could upload the image somewhere and have the remote guy download it to his machine.