Quad-Core Server: 386 or 64bit kernel?

[domino]

Hi,

We have a Quad-Core Intel Xeon Processor and I was wondering if it's makes sense to install the 64bit version CentOS 5.1.

- Are all applications for production webservers able to run on 64bit processors?
- Is there a noticeable gain in speed on a 64 against a 386 kernel?
- What advantages are there with using a 64bit rather than a 32bit processor in the hosting industry?

They have a fairly large database so I'm wondering if the 64bit has any noticeable advantages in that area.

Thanks!

[Hans]

If the applications your 32 bit use are compatible with 64 bit, the question is:
Why don't you make the most of the hardware architecture you have?
Most applications are written for 32 bit, but with a 64 bit system you will notice a little advantage for MySQL databases. Probably more memory will give a better boost in performance.