There are a few things you can do to determine if you’re running a 32-bit or 64-bit Office 2010 installation. If you’re not sure, it’s best to ask your office administrator. If you’re not sure, run the Office 2010 installer and see if it reports that your computer is running on a 32-bit or 64-bit platform. If it does, then you’re likely running a 32-bit installation. If it doesn’t, then you’re likely running a 64-bit installation. If you still can’t determine which installation is correct, then run the Office 2010 uninstaller and see if it reports that your computer is running on a 32-bit or 64-bit platform. If it does, then you’re likely running a 32-bit installation. If it doesn’t, then you’re likely running a 64-bit installation.
Office 2010 is the first version of Office with a native 64 bit version, but by default, most users will be running the 32 bit version of Office 2010. The default setup for Office 2010 will install the 32 bit edition even on 64 bit systems so you can easily run older addins and VBA scripts for Office. The 64 bit version does let you use larger files, such as spreadsheets larger than 2Gb, but doesn’t offer many advantages for average users. Still, though, it can be confusing, as many newer addins are available in both 32 bit and 64 bit, otherwise known as x86 or x64, versions. If you’re unsure which ones to use, here’s how to check.
Check your Office Version
First, open any Office application. In this example, we’re using Word 2010, but it works the same in the other office apps. Open the File menu, and then select Help.
On the right side, you’ll see information about your version of Office. It will show the suite version and included applications, as well as your precise version number and product ID.
Notice on the right of the version number it shows that this copy of Office is 32-bit. As mentioned before, this is the most common version of Office 2010.
If you’re running the 32 bit version, you’ll need to download the 32-bit or x86 version of Office addins.
Or, if you have the 64 bit version of Office installed, you’ll see the 64-bit tag after your Office version number. You’ll want to select x64 versions of addins.
If you accidently try to install a 32-bit addon on a 64 bit version of Office or vise-versa, the installer will usually let you know so you’ll be able to download and install the correct version. Also, we’ve noticed many 32-bit addins, including somewhat older ones, that work fine in the new 64 bit version, so your mileage may vary.
Conclusion
Although this isn’t something you’ll need to check every day, it can be handy to know if you’re running the 32 bit or 64 bit version of Office 2010. Addins can give Office lots of new features, from adding LinkedIn or Facebook to Outlook to letting you insert Chemistry Equations and bring back the file menu. Now you’ll always know which versions to download and install when there’s x86 and x64 versions available.
