Help installing vista 64

[KeypoX]

I just bought 2 more GB of memory, it was only 34 for 2gb so i had to do it. Now i know i need to goto 64bit os since i have 4gb. Problem is i dont want to reinstall everything could i just do a unclean install going from vista business to vista bus 64 or maybe ult 64 retail.

 

[DrGreen2007]

Now i know i need to goto 64bit os since i have 4gb

--no, you dont have to, 32bit will still work fine, but only see 3.25-3.75gb of the 4gb ram

I think changing from 32bit to 64bit requires a clean install, so youd have to reinstall everything

 

[KeypoX]

well that really sucks but i think i will go to 64 bit anyways i just hope i have no issues with drivers

 

[bsobel]

There won't be a 32 to 64 bit migration path until at least the next release of Windows. Im afraid you need to do a clean install. You can use the file/settings transfer wizard to help...

Bill

 

[KeypoX]

Originally posted by: bsobel
There won't be a 32 to 64 bit migration path until at least the next release of Windows. Im afraid you need to do a clean install. You can use the file/settings transfer wizard to help...

Bill

hmm is that windows easy transfer? I am going to research it more it looks promising thanks for the tip 🙂

Windows Easy Transfer will automatically transfer things like:

* User Accounts
* Files and folders
* E-mail messages, settings, and contacts
* Photos, music, and videos
* Windows settings
* Program data files and settings
* Internet settings

really only need the program data and files and settings

 

[stash]

A few minor things won't be transferred when going from 32 to 64 bit: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/929459

Also, in case you ever want to go back to 32 bit, you can't use the Easy Transfer wizard.

Edit: to clarify that last part, you can't go back if you use the Easy Transfer wizard on x64 to make a new capture of your settings and then apply those settings to x86. You could still use the original capture that was made on the x86 box, if you keep it.

 

[KeypoX]

Originally posted by: stash
A few minor things won't be transferred when going from 32 to 64 bit: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/929459

Also, in case you ever want to go back to 32 bit, you can't use the Easy Transfer wizard.

Edit: to clarify that last part, you can't go back if you use the Easy Transfer wizard on x64 to make a new capture of your settings and then apply those settings to x86. You could still use the original capture that was made on the x86 box, if you keep it.

actually it seems it doesnt copy over the games/programs that are installed so the Easy transfer wizard isnt going to be very useful.

Maybe im wrong but the total size was only 7.xxGB which is about the size of 1 game nto all 5 or so plus all my programs (office and such)