Windows 7 64 over Windows 7 32

[dcbollinger]

I installed Windows 7 Home Premium 32 bit because my Vista was 32 bit. I have 4 GB of Ram and would like to install the 64 bit version. Can I simply insert the disc and reinstall the 64 bit version over the 32 bit one?
Thanks
David

 

[bobkn]

32-bit and 64-bit Windows: frequently asked questions

The short version: 64 bit Windows cannot be installed as an iupgrade-in-place over a 32 bit version. You can only do a custom (clean) install. It required booting from the installation DVD; you can't lauch the 64 bit DVD from within a 32 bit OS.

 

[gregrocker]

http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/1649-clean-install-windows-7-a.html

If you have an Upgrade version, it will see the prior OS when DVD boots up to allow use of Upgrade key. Use the Custom>Drive Tools to format before installing.