Changing my OS from 32 to 64

[Kebab]

Changing my OS from 32 to 64 bit will erase all of my current files?

 

[wanderer11]

Well you have to reinstall windows. It won't necessarily erase all your files. They will be put into a "windows.old" folder. Just don't format the drive, or you could back up the stuff you want first them install the 64 bit version.

 

[Kebab]

Well you have to reinstall windows. It won't necessarily erase all your files. They will be put into a "windows.old" folder. Just don't format the drive, or you could back up the stuff you want first them install the 64 bit version.

How do i change to 64 and dont format? i mean, how do i change to 64 and keep all old files?

 

[wanderer11]

Just put in the install disc with the 64 bit version, go to your bios and pick the optical drive for boot priority #1, then follow the prompts.

 

[carowden]

wanderer are you sure it creates a "windows.old" file for a 32 bit to 64 bit change? i know it does that if you upgrade from one os to the next (7 to 8 for example), but i thought for a 32bit to 64bit change you had to reformat and start over. I could be wrong though, just had to ask, rather be safe than sorry.

and kebab, the best way to really ensure you dont lose files is to back them up on an external drive and restore after you finish the install

 

[wanderer11]

oh..good call. I'm not sure at all. Scratch everything I said. Do an actual backup before you install it. Listen to carowden.