Can I Update My System To Windows 7 64bit

[lukefinch]

I need some help.

At the moment my PC is running Windows 7 Ultimate 32bit as I had the install disk laying around at the time i built my pc last summer.

I now have some money to buy the 64bit version of Windows 7, but i need to know if i can install it onto my PC without losing all of my games and downloaded and installed programs?

Also, as i only use my PC for gaming and very slight internet browsing/downloading, will i see a performance boost when going from 32bit to 64bit?

Thanks in advance!

 

[lukefinch]

64bit will recognise All of your 4 gig of ram so Yes you will notice a difference in All areas.

Ok, thats great to know, but can i install it some how and not lose everything on my PC?

 

[lukefinch]

unless you have an "upgrade" disc

a full install will wipe your data

you should back up all your files first

then install windows

then restore your files (and reinstall your apps)

What exactly is an upgrade disk? Is it something different to the normal install disk?

 

[lukefinch]

Indeed. You must clean install.



It doesn't need to be retail.

OK then, thanks for your help

Is there a way i can partition my hard drive and put the programs onto that partition to just move back after i have reinstalled windows?

That way i wouldn't have to reinstall each program, just copy them back over?