Solved Upgrading from xp 32bit- win7 32 or 64 bit

[BinaryBowman]

Hi, I am currently running windows xp 32-bit on my pc and i am finally looking to upgrade to windows 7 but i was wondering whether to get the 32-bit or 64-bit version.
I use my system mainly for gaming, internet browsing and school work, which would be best for me? (system specs in system specs section?)

 

[bassfisher6522]

Run MS upgrade compatabiity advisor. This will tell you all about hardware/software issues before you upgrade. I would recommend a clean install of 7. I would get the Windows 7 Professional 64 bit retail version.

Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor - Download - Microsoft Windows

 

[seavixen32]

Welcome to Windows Seven Forums.

This link will advise you as to whether your computer will run Windows 7: Download Details - Microsoft Download Center - Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor

This one will flag up any compatibility issues: Windows 7 Compatibility: Software Programs & Hardware Devices: Find Updates, Drivers, & Downloads

If you don't mind spending the extra money by buying the retail version of Windows 7 you'll find it will come with two discs: one for the 32-bit version and one for the 64-bit version, which then gives you the choice as to which one you install.

Personally, I'd opt for the 64-bit version because you'll benefit by being able to use more than 3.25 GB of RAM and increased protection from viruses if you use Microsoft Security Essentials x64, which you can download free of charge.

http://www.microsoft.com/en-gb/security_essentials/default.aspx

Don't forget though, as a student, you can get Windows 7 Professional Upgrade for £38, but do check whether the upgrade applies to Windows XP as well as Windows Vista.

http://www.software4students.co.uk/

 

[BinaryBowman]

Hi, and thanks for your replies, I have run the upgrade advisor and have found that I can run both 32 and 64 bit versions of the os. And I have already looked on software4students and it appears that the upgrade applies to both vista and xp, but with xp I would have to do a custom install. Thanks again for your help and I hope to be enjoying win7 very soon

 

[DeaconFrost]

I would also go with x64. Compatibility issues are long in the past, and you'll get full use of your memory.

 

[seavixen32]

Hi, and thanks for your replies, I have run the upgrade advisor and have found that I can run both 32 and 64 bit versions of the os. And I have already looked on software4students and it appears that the upgrade applies to both vista and xp, but with xp I would have to do a custom install. Thanks again for your help and I hope to be enjoying win7 very soon

You're very welcome. Please don't hesitate to post back if you encounter problems along the way.

 

[akhenax]

Depends on how much memory he has installed. Less than 4 Gigs of Ram, and Windows 7 32 bit will suffice, more than 3 Gigs, and Win 7 64 bit is your best bet.

 

[DeaconFrost]

His system specs say 4 GB.