Solved loaded 32 bit on a 64 unit in error

[wilfj]

I just loaded windows 7 on my new computer with the 32 bit disk. The computer is 64 and i have the 64 disk. It seems to work fine.
If i go back and reload with the 64 disk will i lose the software already loaded and will I have to contact MS to re activate?

 

[Jonathan_King]

You will definitely lose the software you installed (clean install only, no in-place upgrade).

You should have no trouble activating, but in the event you do, a call to Microsoft takes care of it.

The 32-bit version will work just fine; however, if you have 4GB or more of RAM, it will not recognize it all.

 

[Kari]

As my distinguished fellow guru Mr. King here above told you, 32-bit works fine for you. I can see from your system specs you have 3 gigs of RAM, I would recommend to stay on 32-bit if you are not going to increase RAM in any time soon.

Kari

 

[CassieFWinTeam]

I agree with Kari. Stay with 32-bit unless you plan to increase RAM. If you have the 64-disc, why not save for installation on a different computer in the future If you are interested in reading more about 32-bit vs. 64-bit, here you go: 32-bit and 64-bit Windows: frequently asked questions.

Cheers,
Cassandra
Microsoft Outreach Team

 

[wilfj]

You will definitely lose the software you installed (clean install only, no in-place upgrade).

You should have no trouble activating, but in the event you do, a call to Microsoft takes care of it.

The 32-bit version will work just fine; however, if you have 4GB or more of RAM, it will not recognize it all.

Thanks... using a new dell C521 as a second unit . Limited but the price was right !

 

[Product FRED]

IMO, Windows 7 is the start of 64-bit as a standard, whereas Windows XP x64 and Vista x64 were more proof-of-concept than polished and ready for consumer usage. Maybe it's just me, but at this point running Windows 7 x86 just seems unecessary. Besides, like Johnathan_King mentioned, any 32-bit version of Windows (ie XP, Vista, 7) will only see up to about 3.5 GB of RAM, whereas for 64-bit versions of Windows 7, you can have up to:

• Starter: 8GB
• Home Basic: 8GB
• Home Premium: 16GB
• Professional: 192GB
• Enterprise: 192GB
• Ultimate: 192GB