32bit to 64bit

mshahin88 · 03 Mar 2010

Hello all, I have a few questions about the way I need to download what I need. I use to have Windows Vista 32 bit version Ultimate, and when beta for Windows 7 came out I downloaded it. I purchased Windows 7 Ultimate (upgrade) from the store, and downloaded it in 32 bit version.

I just found out my processor is capable for 64 bit, and when I tried to download that it said I don't have the right Windows to do it http://img15.imageshack.us/img15/4750/windows1.png . Is this because I had 32 bit vista? and if so, what can I do? And if I do upgrade to 64 bit, will it clear my hard drive? since all my downloads are in 32 bit version, I'm guessing yes but I want to check :)

Thank you very much for your help.

richc46 · 03 Mar 2010

You MUST do a clean install. Format and reinstall everything. If you can really use the extra memory from 64, the work is well worth it.

Bottom line, backup everything or you will lose it.

wallyinnc · 03 Mar 2010

mshahin, just another point: the message was because you were trying to run the 64bit install from your 32bit OS.

You will need to boot from the installation disc and as Rich indicated, do a clean install.

And yes, it will wipe everything in your disc, so you need to either back up or use Windows Easy Transfer to transfer your files and settings to an external drive then move them to the new OS when ready. Please notice that this will not transfer your programs, so if you have downloaded programs make sure you back up the installation program or that you can download them again

Good luck, if you need help in the process let us know

mshahin88 · 03 Mar 2010

ok, this sounds good so far. I was thinking I would have to buy a new Windows 7 key cause I had the 32 bit Windows Vista. I wrote all my programs down, and all I would need to re install and that's no problem if I can get this 64bit working :)

The thing is I thought I was trying to do a clean install from the desktop, then I got that error. For a clean istall how would it be different from "Upgrading"? Since I've always upgraded, it's ther only was I know of , heh.

richc46 · 03 Mar 2010

Follow this and you will have a clean install, which is about 100 times better than an upgrade

Clean Install with a Upgrade Windows 7 Version[2]=General Tips

mshahin88 · 03 Mar 2010

Sweet! Just finished and everything went smooth, now I'm doing all my updating, and having fun with the drivers

Thank you both very much for your help :)

richc46 · 03 Mar 2010

Glad that it worked out. If you use a lot of RAM with games etc, you will love 64 bit.

mshahin88 · 03 Mar 2010

I have 4gb and do game :) That was my main reason, and I'm hoping it makes things better even though they were amazing already.

richc46 · 03 Mar 2010

Mshahin, don't forget you are no longer a guest, you are family, now. Any problems or questions with 64 bit, your entire family (membership) will be happy to help.

mshahin88 · 04 Mar 2010

Thanks for the welcome