[opensuse] switching to 64 bit

Hello:

I have purchased a new computer with more RAM (8 GB)
and newer processor (AMD phenom II x6).

So far all my computers used 32 bit linux (opensuse).
Windows users say that windows requires 64 bit system
to recognize and use memory that is larger than 4 GB
(>3.xx).

1. It is necessary to switch 64 bit opensuse to use 8 GB
RAM? My 32 bit system sees 8 GB RAM (in kinfocenter);
kernel 2.6.31.14-0.8-desktop #1 SMP PREEMPT 2011-04-16
i686 athlon i386 GNU/Linux.


2. If not necessary, what are the advantages of 64 bit?
3. What are the caveats? I guess there might be programs that
can run on 32 bit system only. Can I run these in a 64 bit OS?
Is there some compatibility program?

I never installed and used a 64 bit system before.
I found on the net these sites, but I am not convinced:

http://jeffhoogland.blogspot.hu/2010/08/32-bit-vs-64-bit-linux-which-to-choose.html
http://forums.opensuse.org/english/get-technical-help-here/applications/467788-64-bit-32-bit-opensuse.html

Thanks,

Istvan

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