Can't downgrade from win 64bit to 32 bit ?

tangey · 15 Nov 2010 at 17:16

For reasons of being unable to run 16-bit legacy dos programs under win7 -64(without running a virtual machine whcih slows don't the legacy stuff far too much), I want to re-install, but this time install as 32bit. Everything I've read on the internet says that the 64-bit install disks have both 64-bit and 32-bit on them. However, having booted up the DVD selected custom install, etc, I don't get a asked anywhere to select 64-bit or 32-bit, it just installs the 32-bit.

The DVD came from overclockers along with the system (win7 professional) and the DVD says on it "64-bit software".

So do the install disks indeed have both versions on them, if so how do I force a 32-bit install. If not, do I have to buy a 32-bit version of the OS ?

Raumarik · 15 Nov 2010 at 17:35

I have a 32bit dvd and a separate 64bit dvd, wasn't aware you could have both versions on the same DVD. Are you sure you didn't just purchase the 64bit version in OEM license format or was it a proper retail version (which would give you both?)

theheyes · 15 Nov 2010 at 17:47

Halfmad said:
I have a 32bit dvd and a separate 64bit dvd, wasn't aware you could have both versions on the same DVD. Are you sure you didn't just purchase the 64bit version in OEM license format or was it a proper retail version (which would give you both?)

Most likely this ^

tangey · 16 Nov 2010 at 10:05

Damn, I didn't realise the OEM version would only ship a single option (64 bit in my case).

I hope if I can find a genuine 32-bit win7 pro install disk that my COA key works with it.

Django x2 · 16 Nov 2010 at 11:01

Yeah it will. The keys are valid for either x64 or x32 builds

SimonC · 16 Nov 2010 at 13:32

Tangey, send me an email (in trust) I have something that will be useful to you.
I'd post it here but I don't know if its allowed, not that it's anything illegal.

lcg · 16 Nov 2010 at 14:01

Your key should work with 32-bit media. I remember when I used Vista I had a 32-bit OEM copy, but I reinstalled it using 64-bit media and it activated with my product key.