Windows 7: lost base programs when upgrading from Vista to 7

I just upgraded a 32 bit windows vista Sony Vaio to 64 bit windows 7, but all the shortcuts and original programs (accessories, dvd writers, etc.) installed by Sony are gone. Would like to know how to get these programs back. I had try to use the disc that came with the computer but it actually wipe out windows 7 and reinstall windows vista back onto the computer.

Hi and welcome

I suspect that given you got 32 bit woth the computer the shortcuts etc yoou are looking for are 32bit not 64. Have you tried looking on the sony site to if they have a 64 bit cd?

Most 32 bit apps should still run in 64 bit win 7 but will need to be installed. You dont use the restore dvd but rather another cd that came with the computer


Ken J++

Sony would also have probably shipped an upgrade disc with the programs too.

If you went from 32 bit Vista to Windows 7 X64, you performed a custom (clean) install. (It's not permitted to upgrade-in-place a 32 bit OS to a 64 bit one.) Any applications installed under Vista were not transferred to Windows 7.

If you'd stayed with 32 bit, you could have done an upgrade-in-place (with the right combination -like V. Home Premium to 7 Home Premium or Ultimate). I wouldn't care to count on the applications continuing to run, though. (They all may, but you'd be out of luck with any that needed to be re-installed.)

Maybe Sony can help you with install media for the stuff you originally got as pre-installed. (Seems unlikely, but it wouldn't hurt to ask.)

With my (cheap) Compaq laptop, I was happy enough that I had no need to preserve any of the pre-installed software on it (MS Works, a DVD player). I stayed with 32 bit, but I prefer clean installs. (Gave me an opportunity to make sure that the last of the crapware was gone, too.)

If I wanted to go with Sony's option they would have shipped the OS and an extra disc with drivers. Try the website for drivers for your model number.