// ZDNET — HARDWARE & GADGET
Sparky Linux just restored 32-bit support - why that still matters
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Every PC sold today is 64-bit. In fact, one of the last true 32-bit-only CPUs was the Pentium 4 Northwood chip, which was available for purchase between 2000 and 2008. I can't remember the last time I actually saw a 32-bit-only machine.
Couple that with Microsoft ending support for Office 365 on 32-bit architecture this December, and it's pretty simple to conclude that 32-bit PCs are done.
But wait! Before you draw that conclusion and recycle all of those old 32-bit systems, there's always Linux.
Also: The best Linux laptops: Expert tested for students, hobbyists, and pros
You're probably thinking, "Haven't most distributions given up on the 32-bit architecture?" Yes, many have. But others have decided that 32-bit, single-core systems are still viable. Although it's nearly impossible to determine how many such systems are still in use, it makes perfect sense that Linux would support them.
Consider this: Around the globe, there are impoverished nations and cash-strapped organizations that still require computers and are probably holding tight to those old systems, hoping they'll continue working for the foreseeable future. Not only is it good for those who cannot afford to purchase new computers, but it could also prevent serious computer waste from filling up trash dumps.
The developers of Sparky Linux understand this, so they've decided to continue releasing the distribution for 32-bit systems. The developers posted on the official Sparky Linux blog:
A year ago, Debian dropped support for 32-bit Live/Install ISO images, so Sparky dropped it as well. This decision has been reassessed, as it turns out there are still a significant number of people in the world who own "really old," still functional computers with 32-bit processors...That's why Sparky 8.4 restores support for 32-bit machines, offering, in addition to amd64/x86_64 and ARM64/AARCH64 versions, also 32-bit/i686-pae Live/Install images as ultra-light Openbox and CLI editions for self-configuration as you wish.
Everyone who owns an ancient PC should breathe a sigh of relief.