Backup required if upgrading from 32bit to 64bit?


  1. Posts : 3
    windows xp service pack 3 32bit
       #1

    Backup required if upgrading from 32bit to 64bit?


    Hi! I'm thinking about upgrading from windows xp 32bit to windows 7 64bit. I did some research and found out that it's not possible to upgrade from a 32bit OS to a 64bit one. Though you could preform a clean install if you backup your files.

    What I wonder is if it's essential that you backup files as I don't care to lose them. will the installation work anyways?
      My Computer


  2. Posts : 17,796
    Windows 10, Home Clean Install
       #2

    Yes you must back up
    If you are going from 32 to 64, the best way is clean install with format.
    You will lose everything. Backup documents etc. Have CDs with key number ready for programs.
      My Computer


  3. Posts : 72,719
    64-bit Windows 11 Pro for Workstations
       #3

    Hello Heelmuut, and welcome to Seven Forums.

    You are only able to do a clean install when going from 32-bit to 64-bit.

    You do not have to backup anything if you do not want to, and just delete the drive/partition that the 32-bit Windows 7 is on during the clean install.

    Hope this helps,
    Shawn
      My Computer


  4. Posts : 3
    windows xp service pack 3 32bit
    Thread Starter
       #4

    richc46 said:
    Yes you must back up
    If you are going from 32 to 64, the best way is clean install with format.
    You will lose everything. Backup documents etc. Have CDs with key number ready for programs.
    Thanks for the quick reply. But what happens if I don't backup?
      My Computer


  5. Posts : 72,719
    64-bit Windows 11 Pro for Workstations
       #5

    You would lose everything on the drive or partition that you are doing a clean install of 64-bit Windows 7 to.

    Clean Install Windows 7
      My Computer


  6. Posts : 17,796
    Windows 10, Home Clean Install
       #6

    Yes, I agree with both of Brinks posts. You do not HAVE to backup, but if you dont you will lose documents, etc.
      My Computer


  7. Posts : 3
    windows xp service pack 3 32bit
    Thread Starter
       #7

    Ok thank you all for your replies. You have been very helpfull
      My Computer


  8. Posts : 17,796
    Windows 10, Home Clean Install
       #8

    Glad to help
    Enjoy your computer in a Happy and Healthy New Year.
      My Computer


  9. Posts : 72,719
    64-bit Windows 11 Pro for Workstations
       #9

    You're most welcome. Glad that we could help. :)
      My Computer


 

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