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Can I install a 64 bit Windows 7 on a computer that currently has a 32 bit version of Vista? I think that my hardware can handle a 64 bit Operating System. I tried to install a 64 bit version of Windows 7 but the installation program checked my current Operating System and stopped.

Is there any way to override this?

How can I make sure my hardware can handle the 64 bit OS? (I build this computer from scratch)

I do not think this will delete my hard drive. Will it?

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Short answer: you can install 64‑bit Windows 7 on a machine that currently runs 32‑bit Vista, but not as an in‑place upgrade — it must be a custom/clean install. is correct: the installer won’t do a 32→64 in‑place upgrade. (blogs.windows.com)

Check the CPU and firmware before you begin. From Vista run msinfo32 and look at System Type, or use a small utility like Sysinternals Coreinfo to confirm the processor supports 64‑bit (look for EM64T/AMD64). If the CPU is x64‑capable you can proceed; also plan for at least 2 GB RAM (4 GB+ recommended for real benefit). Example commands: 

msinfo32
coreinfo -f

(you may need to download Coreinfo and run it as administrator). (support.microsoft.com)

Driver and application compatibility matters. 64‑bit Windows requires 64‑bit kernel drivers (32‑bit drivers won’t load) and enforces signed kernel drivers by default on x64 systems; older devices without x64 drivers may not work. Most 32‑bit user apps run under WOW64, but 16‑bit installers and programs are not supported on x64 — plan to get x64 drivers or replacements for critical hardware. (learn.microsoft.com)

Practical flow: back up everything (manual copy, Windows Easy Transfer or a full image), make bootable Windows 7 x64 media, boot from it, choose Custom (advanced) and install to the system partition (format if you want a truly clean disk — otherwise setup will move the old Windows to C:\Windows.old). Expect to reinstall programs and device drivers afterward. If you’re using an “upgrade” license, keep the product key and be prepared to follow activation guidance or contact Microsoft if activation complains. (learn.microsoft.com)

Notes tied to earlier replies: was right to check hardware first — Coreinfo/msinfo32 are safer than guessing — and ’s warning to back up and do a clean install is the practical path. If uncertain, test the x64 install on a spare drive or in a VM first.

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Member Avatar for Laser

There is no upgrade path from 32bit windows vista to 64bit windows 7.
The only way is to do a clean install of the 64bit by booting from the win7 install dvd and selecting a custom install. This method will require you to backup all your data and re-install your programs.
You can find more info here: http://www.winsupersite.com/win7/clean_install_upgrade_media.asp

Member Avatar for mdk2k4

Ok to find out if your motherboard will handle a 64bit OS, do this, go to this site and download cpuz it's a free utility that will tell all your motherboard specs and your computer for that matter. http://www.cpuid.com/cpuz.php
also go to Device Doctor site that way you will get all your correct 64 bit drivers. http://www.devicedoctor.com/

Also do what laser said, almost forgot. clean install only for it to work.

Edited by mdk2k4 because: n/a
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