Is it possible to upgrade from a 32-bit version of Windows to a 64-bit version of Windows 7 or from a 64-bit version of Windows 7 to a 32-bit version of Windows?
You
can use the Upgrade option during Windows 7 installation, which
preserves your files, settings, and programs, only if you're currently
running a 32-bit version of Windows Vista and you want to upgrade to the
32-bit version of Windows 7. Similarly, if you are running a 64-bit
version of Windows Vista, you can only perform an upgrade to a 64-bit
version of Windows 7.
If
you want to move from a 32-bit version of Windows to a 64-bit version
of Windows 7 or vice versa, you'll need to back up your files and choose
the Custom option during Windows 7 installation. Then, you'll need to
restore your files and reinstall your programs. For more information
about performing a custom installation, see Installing and reinstalling Windows 7.
Notes:
- To install a 64-bit version of Windows 7 on a computer running a 32-bit version of Windows, you'll need to start, or boot, your computer using a 64-bit Windows 7 installation disc or files.
- If you start your computer using a 64-bit Windows 7 installation disc or files, but your computer isn't capable of running a 64-bit version of Windows, you'll see a Windows Boot Manager error. You'll need to use a 32-bit Windows 7 installation disc or files instead.
- Windows Easy Transfer can't transfer files from a 64-bit version of Windows to a 32-bit version of Windows. If you're running a 64-bit version of Windows Vista but you plan to install a 32-bit version of Windows 7, you can move your files to an external location manually or use Backup and Restore in Windows Vista. (If you're running a 64-bit version of Windows XP, you'll need to move your files to an external location manually.) Also Read: How To Find If Your Computer Is Running A 32-bit Or 64-bit Windows
