Member Avatar for kelechi96

Hi I want to learn asm but I have Windows XP64 how do I go about learning assembeler for this operating system.

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Thread replies from , and start the right discussion but leave a practical, step‑by‑step path implicit. The first decision is the learning target: historical 16‑bit (real‑mode DOS or 16‑bit Windows), classic 32‑bit x86, or modern x86‑64. Each target requires different tools, different mental models (segmentation and BIOS interrupts vs flat 32/64‑bit addressing) and different workflows.

For modern x86‑64 study, concentrate on the 64‑bit register set and addressing, stack/frame layout, and calling conventions. Study both Microsoft x64 (first integer args in RCX, RDX, R8, R9; shadow space; returns in RAX/XMM0) and System V AMD64 (first six integer args in RDI, RSI, RDX, RCX, R8, R9). A useful exercise is to compile a small C function with optimizations off, inspect the compiler’s assembly output, then reimplement the routine in assembly and single‑step it with a debugger to observe register and stack behavior. Ensure the assembler and linker produce the correct object format for the target (PE/COFF on Windows, ELF on Linux).

For genuine 16‑bit work, run code inside a matching legacy environment rather than attempting to execute it natively on a 64‑bit host. An emulator or virtual machine that supports real/protected mode makes development and debugging practical. Focus topics for 16‑bit study include segmentation, interrupt vectors, BIOS/DOS calls and far/near call conventions.

Concrete checklist (turn pointers into a repeatable workflow):

  • pick the exact ISA/OS target (16‑bit real, 16‑bit Win, x86, or x86‑64)
  • choose an assembler/linker that emits the right object format for that target
  • set up a VM/emulator for legacy targets or a native toolchain for x86‑64
  • build tiny programs, inspect compiler output, then reimplement in assembly
  • step through with a debugger and verify calling/stack conventions; if linking fails, check object format and 32/64‑bit mismatches

The thread suggestions from and provide good starting points; the checklist above turns those pointers into a safe, repeatable learning route.

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Member Avatar for jen140

Win xp64 also runs 32 bit applications (badly but runs) so you could easily get a masm ,nasm , fasm or other compiler and start coding without problems =).

Member Avatar for NicAx64

LOL !
my idea is a newbie should be new , why he should learn win32 or 32 bit assembly.so

is the first program.and toochain is goAsm , I thik NASM is also supports.

But in your thread you asked 16-bit application to this os , yes 16-bit windows or dos applications ? both are not working under
xp 64 bit , then you need to install dos-box if you really want to
dig into the old computing platform. good nothing you learn will
be a waste.

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