Question About Switching from 32-bit to 64-bit

BBostock · 03 Jul 2010

I was thinking about switching my current Windows 7 32-bit installation to the 64-bit version. I know this would require a clean install, but I have one question. Most of my programs are installed on a combination of external and non-primary drives (not the C drive). If I were to disconnect those drives before installation and then reconnect them when finished, would the programs and files still work and be accessible? I feel like they would not work, though I just wanted to be sure before I tried anything.

Thanks

richc46 · 03 Jul 2010

You have to reinstall with DVD or download, as appropriate. Nothing will be lost by trying, however.

Wishmaster · 03 Jul 2010

Only programs/apps that did not require being installed will still work. Ones that just run from a folder.

If it had to be installed via installer, then it likely will not.

richc46 · 03 Jul 2010

Wishmaster said:

Only programs/apps that did not require being installed will still work. Ones that just run from a folder.

If it had to be installed via installer, then it likely will not.

Agreed

DocBrown · 03 Jul 2010

You might want to look into making a backup of settings, docs, pics, etc with Windows Easy Transfer

Windows Easy Transfer - Transfer To & From Computers

BBostock · 04 Jul 2010

Thanks everyone! Now a followup question. If I take the Hard Drives from my 32-bit computer, unplug them, upgrade to 64-bit and then plug them back in, the data should still be accessible, correct? The installed programs will need to be reinstalled but all the data should be there, like music, pics, docs, and all that non-installed stuff.

Thanks

Luckystar · 04 Jul 2010

BBostock said:

Thanks everyone! Now a followup question. If I take the Hard Drives from my 32-bit computer, unplug them, upgrade to 64-bit and then plug them back in, the data should still be accessible, correct? The installed programs will need to be reinstalled but all the data should be there, like music, pics, docs, and all that non-installed stuff.

Thanks

Yes.

Lucky.

BBostock · 04 Jul 2010

Thank you muchly.

richc46 · 04 Jul 2010

Yes, the 64 bit can access both 32 and 64 so there should be not problem.