How many CPU cores can Windows 7 support/utilize?

Question

I've been reading up and it only ever mentions that is supports 2 cores. Does this mean if I buy a quad-core processor I can't make use of the other 2 cores or does that only refer to the actual operating system and other programs CAN use all four cores?

Answer 1

there is a difference between muticore and multiprocessor. a multicore processor is 1 chip which can do multiple tasks at the same time. most processors out now and multicore. a multiprocessor computer is one that uses 2 actual chips on the motherboard. programming multiprocessor applications is very tricky and rarely done for consumers, this is more of a scientific supercomputer type of task. now windows 7 can support 2 processors each having multiple cores. so a theoritical maximum would be on windows 7 pro, enterprise or ultimate 64 bit editions on a motherboard with 2 processors each using 256 cores for a grand total of 512 cores running at the same time. my windows 7 pc with an intel core i7 2630qm shows 8 core graphs in the task manager performance tab, this is because it is a quad core processor and each core can hyperthread (run 2 tasks at a time basically).

Answer 2

Windows 7 Home Premium, and up, recognizes all multi-core CPUs. BUT, there are very few 3rd-party Windows Apps that can use more than one Core at a time.



The exceptions are a few high-end video games, and, photo / video-editing Apps. And, each of their System Requirements will state that they DO support multi-core CPUs, PhotoShop CS 6 is an example.



So, do your own research to see if this issue is even relevant.

Answer 3

win 7, from starter to ultime, supports and could utilize from 1 core to 8 cores in fact i have an i3 quad-core processor and it uses all four cores

Answer 4

quad center for now yet might ask in case you have abode windows 7 professional sixty 4 bit, Are greater cores directly load balanced for many helpful operation. Or previous 4 center does abode windows 7 professional sixty 4 bit no longer hire those cores o.k..

Answer 5

Of course you can buy a qual core processor in the Windows 7~It's support it.~