32bit to 64bit (Fresh Install)

Forgive me if this is the wrong place to post this, but I just joined and still figuring out Windows Seven Forums, so I apologize in advance.

I currently have Windows 7 Home Premium running on my desktop that is about 3 years old (give or take a month or two) and I have the 64bit version on my laptop (which is about a year old) and love both. However, I do most of my work on my desktop, and would like the comfort of 64bit.

I'm aware that you can't upgrade 32bit to 64bit, so I've been contemplating the option of saving all my important content and then doing a fresh install of the 64bit Windows 7 Professional, then putting my info back on the computer.

Is this realistic thinking? Or am I better off just living with 32bit until this computer craps out, then buy a new one eventually? I can only imagine with all the data and programs I have, that it seems like a bit of a long shot to somehow preserve all the data from the last 3 years, and reinstall all my programs and expect things to work without any problems.

Bitter said:

Forgive me if this is the wrong place to post this, but I just joined and still figuring out Windows Seven Forums, so I apologize in advance.

I currently have Windows 7 Home Premium running on my desktop that is about 3 years old (give or take a month or two) and I have the 64bit version on my laptop (which is about a year old) and love both. However, I do most of my work on my desktop, and would like the comfort of 64bit.

I'm aware that you can't upgrade 32bit to 64bit, so I've been contemplating the option of saving all my important content and then doing a fresh install of the 64bit Windows 7 Professional, then putting my info back on the computer.

Is this realistic thinking? Or am I better off just living with 32bit until this computer craps out, then buy a new one eventually? I can only imagine with all the data and programs I have, that it seems like a bit of a long shot to somehow preserve all the data from the last 3 years, and reinstall all my programs and expect things to work without any problems.

When going from 32 to 64 you do need to do a clean install. You will have to re-install you apps not matter what. You may be able to import the data if its application has an import function

The "comfort" of 64 bit? How do you use your computer? any heavy usage apps?


We could use your system specs if we dont already have them


Ken

In regard to the documents, it shouldn't be a problem. As far as programs are concerned however, make sure you have your installation media, keys, and such available after the upgrade because you will need them to reinstall all your applications. Depending on the computer you have (fill in your specs), it could work flawlessly or it could have issues. Before you upgrade, ensure your computer has drivers available for 64-bit Windows 7 (or Vista at the very least). Additionally, consider how much RAM your PC has and if it's really worth the time and effort to jump to 64-bit Windows 7.

Generally, unless you really have a compelling reason (4 GB or more of RAM, sometimes 3 GB or some 64-bit application you want to use), then it's best to stick with what you've got because it will definitely take some time and effort to transition everything over and get your computer back to the way you like it; especially after three years worth of data build up.

zigzag3143 said:

When going from 32 to 64 you do need to do a clean install. You will have to re-install you apps not matter what. You may be able to import the data if its application has an import function

The "comfort" of 64 bit? How do you use your computer? any heavy usage apps?


We could use your system specs if we dont already have them


Ken

I use a lot of Adobe programs for design and web development, as well as a number of miscellaneous apps. An example of a normal day would be using IM programs, email, internet, photoshop, dreamweaver, an FTP client, iTunes, and occasionally a few folders open. It works pretty snappy as is right now, but I know it could be better, and utilize my 4GB of RAM better if I wasn't on 32bit.

Darician said:

In regard to the documents, it shouldn't be a problem. As far as programs are concerned however, make sure you have your installation media, keys, and such available after the upgrade because you will need them to reinstall all your applications. Depending on the computer you have (fill in your specs), it could work flawlessly or it could have issues. Before you upgrade, ensure your computer has drivers available for 64-bit Windows 7 (or Vista at the very least). Additionally, consider how much RAM your PC has and if it's really worth the time and effort to jump to 64-bit Windows 7.

Generally, unless you really have a compelling reason (4 GB or more of RAM, sometimes 3 GB or some 64-bit application you want to use), then it's best to stick with what you've got because it will definitely take some time and effort to transition everything over and get your computer back to the way you like it; especially after three years worth of data build up.

Yeah, it looks like installing programs would be my least fun task. I believe all the programs (or at least most commonly used programs) are all compatible, and drivers are available for my computer on 64bit, but the hassle of getting my programs reinstalled, find where on earth I put the boxes and CDs with the keys and install info, etc. might hold me back. I'm pretty comfortable on 32bit right now, and my computer is holding up well for being 3 years old, so I guess I can't complain, but I was just exploring my options.

It seems that I'll just stick with 32bit for now until this computer starts to die off, because although 64bit would be nice to use at home on my desktop, it might not be worth the tedious process of preserving all my apps and data.

Thanks for all your responses. Much appreciated!

CarlTR6 said:

If it ain't broke... :)

Very true. I suppose I can't argue against that! I'll just remind myself of this when I get the urge to go to 64bit :)

Unless you know for sure you need the added features in Pro, you can change your 32 bit Premium to 64 bit at no extra charge since either bit version is allowed with each license.

You could always clean install 64 bit Premium, activate and then if you want to upgrade to Pro use Anytime Upgrade to unlock the added features for less money. Save a System Image in case you ever need to reimage.