In 2010, Microsoft released Office 2010 in both 32 bit and 64 bit versions. The 32 bit is the default for installation. You should install the 32 bit version. You should only install the 64 bit version if you're a Excel power user with spreadsheets larger than 2 GIGABYTES (HUGE) and you do NOT need compatibility with legacy add-ons(including Wizards), Access databases, and other Microsoft applications.

To check your version, open Microsoft Word 2010, click Help, on the right hand side see the panel marked About Microsoft Word. There will be an entry the reads Version: 14.xxxxxxxxx(YY bit) where YY=32 or 64. If it reads 32, you're ok.

There is NO advantage in the 64 bit version in Word or any other application (Access, Outlook, etc) except as noted above; however, there are numerous disadvantages. The 64 bit version is not compatible with databases, add-ons, Active-X controls, Data controls, toolbars, and a host of other things created in 32 bit. It is not compatible with Wizards programs, and many Microsoft applications and databases. You will continue to run into problems with the 64 bit version.

Unless you have huge spreadsheets, i.e., you're the CFO of General Electric, both Microsoft and Recipes for Word recommend you install the 32 bit version of Office.

If you purchased a Microsoft DVD, you have both the 32 bit and 64 bit versions thereon.Uninstall Wizards. Uninstall the 64 bit version, and reinstall the 32 bit version. Reinstall Wizards. If you purchased a download, revisit the web site and download the 32 bit version. For further help with downloads contact the download provider (usually Digital River.)

INSTALL THE 32 BIT VERSION OF OFFICE 2010 TO AVOID PROBLEMS, EVEN ON A 64 BIT COMPUTER WITH A 64 BIT VERSION OF WINDOWS (Windows Vista or Windows 7). Your programs will run better and faster without problems.

For more technical information from Microsoft:

http://blogs.technet.com/b/office2010/archive/2010/02/23/understanding-64-bit-office.aspx

Again, you MUST install the 32 bit version of Office 2010.