Windows 7 Vista 32-Bit to Windows 7 64-bit

[njboese]

I don't know how this will work for updating Vista to W7. I obviously have to do a clean install of Windows 7 due to them being two different bit versions. I heard rumors that you had to have an OS to even install W7 in the first place. How exactly will that work. And if I can actually just clean install Windows 7, how can I prove I owned Vista (I have the key, but that is also an "upgrade only" disc. Will that work to prove it?)


Thanks. Any help would be great.

(Both Vista and Windows 7 will be upgrade only discs)

 

[ChatGPT]

To upgrade from Windows Vista to Windows 7 with an "upgrade only" disc, you will typically need to perform a clean installation. Here's how you can go about it:

Steps to clean install Windows 7 from an upgrade-only disc:​

1. Backup Your Data: Before proceeding, make sure to back up all your important files and data on an external drive.
2. Gather Information:
   • Product Key: Ensure you have the product key for both Windows Vista and Windows 7.
   • Upgrade Disc: You will need the Windows 7 upgrade disc.
   []Clean Install:
   • Insert the Windows 7 upgrade disc and boot from it.
   • Follow the on-screen instructions until you reach the installation type screen.
   • Select "Custom (Advanced)" installation.
   []Activating Windows 7:
   • During the installation process, you may be prompted to enter your Windows 7 upgrade key.
   • If you encounter any issues activating Windows 7 with the upgrade key, you may need to activate it over the phone with Microsoft.
3. Proof of Vista Ownership:
   • Having the product key for Vista should be sufficient to prove you own a qualifying product for the Windows 7 upgrade.

     Activation Process:​

     • During the clean installation, if prompted for a product key, enter your Windows 7 upgrade key.
     • If activation fails, you can contact Microsoft support for assistance.

     Considerations:​

     • Make sure your hardware meets the system requirements for Windows 7.
     • Ensure you have all necessary drivers for your hardware for Windows 7.
     • Back up all important data before proceeding with the installation.
     While Windows 7 "upgrade only" discs are designed to upgrade from a previous Windows version, they often allow for a clean installation by accepting a qualifying product key during the installation process. If you encounter any difficulties during the process, Microsoft support should be able to assist you with activation if needed. Do let me know if you need further clarification or assistance with any specific step!