Subj : Inconsistent results for checking whether the OS is 32 or 64 bit
To   : Adam Funk
From : Christian Vanguers
Date : Thu Jul 18 2024 11:11:18


   Hello Adam!

17 Jul 24 15:03, you wrote to all:

 AF> $ uname -m
 AF> aarch64

This shows your kernel is 64-bit

 AF> $ getconf LONG_BIT
 AF> 32

This indicates that the user applications are compiled for a 32-bit architecture.

 AF> $ dpkg --print-architecture
 AF> armhf

This shows the distribution you have installed is for the 32-bit ARM architecture

 AF> Which one is right?

The mix you have is because Raspbian (Raspberry Pi OS) can be installed with a 64-bit kernel while using 32-bit user space applications.
It is a common configuration to maximize compatibility while allowing the benefits of a 64-bit kernel.

If you want to run a fully 64-bit system on your RPi 4B, I'm afraid you got to reinstall.

Otherwise it's not a problem at all to run a 32-bit user space on a 64-bit kernel.  But be aware that some packages or apps may have copatibility issues.


Christian
LPIC-1/LPIC-2/LPIC-3 Security certified

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