Windows 7: Free Windows 7 upgrade if Vista PC is bought = 32-bit?

I bought my laptop late summer last year so I was elligible to be sent the upgrade version of Windows 7 (paying only the postage). My issue is that although I have a 64-bit processor, I was sent a 32-bit version of Windows 7. Diid everyone get the 32-bit version regardless of their processor type? I had to register the computer I'm using, so the processor-type ought to have been in their database?

Your computer is capable of handling 64 bit, it is not have a 64 bit processor. You can use 32 bit on any computer, although some memory may be wasted.


When you buy an OS, you are mainly paying for the key, not the DVD. You may want to call MS and see if you can get a DVD for cost plus a little more. You may, also want to contact your vendor to see if he can help.

You were probably sent 32 bit because you had 32 bit alreaday installed. If it was an upgrade DVD, you cannot upgrade from 32 to 64, you must do a clean install. Note, however a clean install can be done with an upgrade DVD.

Wish you luck

You're entitled to use either 64 bit or 32 bit with each license under Windows 7 EULA, no matter what your manufacturer tells or sends you.

Obtain a 64 bit installer and clean install using key which comes with 32 bit disk.

Using a different approach, Greg and I agree. You should be able to use 64 bit if that is your goal. Wishing you the best of luck.

I have here an OEM version of 64-bit Win 7 for a system I've just built (just waiting for RAM to arrive) as well as the previously mentioned 32-bit upgrade version. Could I use that? Will the key work given that it was meant for an upgrade version of Windows and I'll be using an OEM full version? I would then be hoping to use the same Windows CD to install Windows on two different computers with two different keys. I think/hope that you just said that would work fine, right?

You also need to make sure you have MORE than 2 gigs of RAM, otherwise x64 will not run well.

Yes, you can use that copy, providing it is the SAME version as the one you have (Home, Home premium, Pro, Ult)

~Lordbob

Okay, great. My PC has 4 GB DDR3 and both versions are Home Premium. Thanks everyone!

Yup, you are set to go then. Enjoy Windows 7!

~Lordbob

Hope that you enjoy the OS as much as I do.