Windows Server 2003 x64 & x32

[faza]

I am in the process of installing Exchange 2007 and found that the server O/S needs to be x64. Our existing server i believe are all x32 as standard.

 

Do i need to install the x64 O/S and are all the x32 i have compatiable and work fully with the x64 O/S.

 

 

Faza

[zag]

Yep you need to install 2003 64bit.

 

And no, lots of programs wont work I needed to download a 64bit version of symantec corp antivirus. Also different drivers for various hardware.

 

Also I found there was no speed difference using the 64bit version, went back to exchange 2003 32bit and it was much nicer imo.

[faza]

Are Server 2003 x32 and Server 2003 x64 compatiable?

[Michael]

You can have Windows x86 and x64 servers in the same domain and they will talk to each other. Same with x86 and x64 clients.

 

The problem with x64 is that you'll need software specifically for it, including AV software and drivers as ittech mentioned. The main benefit of x64 isn't so much speed, but of the amount of memory addressable is far greater and is beneficial for very large domains.

 

You could debate though that multiple x86 servers would be just as good if not better, but Exchange 2007 only works on x64 unfortunately. Microsoft haven't made it easy for administrators currently using Exchange 2003 to move to 2007.

[faza]

So will x64 and x32 servers talk?

[Michael]

Yes they will talk. Think about it like this - you could be running Exchange 2007 x64, but most of the users checking their mail would be using XP/Vista x86 (more than likely).