Win7 Download - One time only?

McPC · 17 Jul 2009

I bought the pre order Win7 with the download option from MS. I've heard there will be an option to download 32 or 64 bit versions.

If I choose the 64bit version and it doesn't work out would I still be able to download the 32 bit version as well or is the MS download a 1 time only deal?

By chance if it's a 1 time download and I got a hold of another Win7 disk w/32 bit operating system would the key still work?

It's only after reading many posts here that I've even considered jumping into the 64 bit version and figured this would be THE time to make the change but I know enough that there still may be some unforeseen show stopper that may cause me to have to go back to a 32bit OS.

Wayner · 17 Jul 2009

Being a recent convert i can confirm that 64 bit is definitely the way forward :)

As long as processor supports 64bit then you should find transition relatively simple... at least i sure did, especially since you are starting from scratch with a clean install.

In terms of the downloads i can't see why they would restrict this. As the boxed version comes with both versions i'm sure they would offer the same facility for downloads. I am pretty sure the restriction would be around the key only, not number of times downloaded.

You might download and then lose the install file before installing. Not on to say, "well tough you can't have the product you have bought now". So as i say mostly likely both built into the one download, or able to access both and only prod key is the differentiator.

If that makes sense... :)

DJG · 17 Jul 2009

You'll also be downloading through their download manager anyway which lets you pause & continue and knows if you've actually downloaded. But I'm sure they won't nickel & dime you if you have problems downloading.

masterB · 17 Jul 2009

You should be able to download both as far as I know.
I recommend 64 bit. If you want to try 32 bit first don't activate it until you're sure that's the one you want to use.

McPC · 17 Jul 2009

Thanks for the tips! Yea, I realized the boxed set will have both versions so I had my fingers crossed that the download situation would allow downloads of each version but one never can be sure unless MS has stated that and I didn't see anything mentioned.

Didn't think to hold off on the activation which is definitely good advise if I find some software/driver issues with 64 bit version and would need to start again with the 32 bit OS.

Some of my hardware concerns are:

Logitech Pro 9000 webcam
Canon N67OU scanner

Software Concerns:

Motorola Phone Tools

Everything is working with later Win7 RC 32-bit versions. Motorola PT didn't work with the first beta.

Lordbob75 · 18 Jul 2009

Hello McPC (nice name) and welcome.

Worst-case scenario, you can find another DL (or disk) from a nice friend (or someone here) that you can use your Key on.

You should see no problems with x64 vs x32. The only real incompatibility I have had is the Yahoo! SiteBuilder, which ABSOLUTELY WILL NOT WORK IN x64, PERIOD!!!!
(Yeah, well F!&@ YOU YAHOO!)..... Sorry. I am not happy about that.
*coughs*

Yeah, you should not have any problems.

~Lordbob