Windows 7: Reinstalling Windows

Hi!

My computer is running slower and slower and it hangs sometimes.



I would like to completely reinstall the system (clean install).

Now, is it possible to reinstall the system, but then install a 64-bit version? Now I have Windows 7 32-bit (upgrade from vista) and I've seen that 64-bit is working faster.

What is the most simple way to do this?

Thx!

Martin

Do you have the 64-bit installation disc?

Do you know if your hardware is 64-bit compatible?

If yes to both questions, you would then just backup personal data, boot from the 64-bit disc, and run the installer.

But you might not notice any difference.

Your processor handles 64bit right?

You don't re-install and THEN install the 64 bit version, you install the 64 bit version.

But yes, your key is valid for either version.

To upgrade to 64 bit you need to do clean install
SSD / HDD : Optimize for Windows Reinstallation
Clean Install with a Upgrade Windows 7 Version

Hi all!

Where do I check if my hardware is compatible?

And is it really worth it, to upgrade to 64 bit?

Martin

Check here, you'll need to click the hardware tab: Windows 7 Compatibility: Software Programs & Hardware Devices: Find Updates, Drivers, & Downloads

There isn't much in the way of newer applications that won't run under Windows 7 x64.

One thing to watch for if you do decide to install the 64-bit version (and I think you should) is this:

Under All Programs you will find a Program Files folder and a Program Files (x86) folder.

The former is the container for any 64-bit applications on your computer, whilst the latter is the container for 32-bit applications.

Also, if you use Internet Explorer as your default browser you'll find you have the choice of using a 32-bit version and a 64-bit version.

If you use the 64-bit version you need to be aware that Adobe have not yet released a fully-tested version of Adobe Flash x64 so some websites will lose functionality. However, Adobe have released a Beta version of Flash x64 so you could use that.

Stonebear's comment referring to RAM on a 32-bit system is correct.

Ok thanks!

So now: move all my files from my user folder to my Portable Hard Drive, buy a 64-bit disc and install it on my C: Drive and then move it back?

Thx!

Martin

I just found this link for downloading Windows 7 SP1....I am downloading one myself, I hope it's OK. What do people think?

Link removed by Dwarf

This would be a better source, be sure to select the correct bit-rate.


Download Details - Microsoft Download Center - Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 Service Pack 1 (KB976932)