Windows 7 Changing from 64bit to 32bit

[EDDiCTS]

Hi again,I got a friend here with windows 7 home premium 64bit & she wants to change from 64bit to 32bit,is it possible if i just boot with cd?

 

[Bill2]

You need to boot from the 32 bit dvd, then do a clean install. This means your hard drive will get wiped so backup valuable data before starting. You'll also need to reinstall all your apps and drivers.

Remember if this is a retail win7 package, you can use the same product key you used for 64 bit, as long as you completely uninstall the 64 bit.

 

[EDDiCTS]

Thanks Bill,but it is a retail package.Its a windows 7 home premium and she wants to changed into 32bit Windows 7 Ultimate,Can the product key may work as well?

 

[Bill2]

What I meant was that win7 keys are not architecture specific, the same key will work on 32 bit or 64 bit. But keys are indeed SKU (edition) specific so a home premium key will NOT work on Ultimate. So what can she do?

She can first clean install home premium 32 bit using the same key she's using right now, then purchase a cheap Anytime Upgrade key for 32 bit Ultimate.

BTW, what does she need ultimate for? You can compare editions and decide.

Compare Windows 7 Editions - Windows 7 Forums