Switch from a 32-bit OS to 64-bit OS on Windows 10


  1. Posts : 71
    Windows 10
       #1

    Switch from a 32-bit OS to 64-bit OS on Windows 10


    I am running a 32 bit Windows 10 OS. I was looking around and noticed that my PC has an x64-based processor. Everything I have looked at so far tells me that I can run the 64 bit OS on this PC.

    If I was to reload Windows 10 with the 64-bit OS from an ISO disk, are there any problems I should watch out? If it messes up, can I go back to the 32 bit OS using the 32 bit ISO disk? Are there any licensing problems if I do this? I would guess that the 32-bit apps would still work like 32-bit apps and any 64 bit apps would take advantage of the 64 bit OS.

    Or should I just forget about it and leave things as they are.

    I have been on Windows 10 for a while and have no plans on going back to Windows 7 so reverting back to the Windows 7 32-bit OS is not a concern.

    Thanks,
    Bill
      My Computer


  2. Posts : 1,546
    Windows 10 Pro x64 RS 10586.586
       #2

    Hi!

    It does not matter whether 32 or 64 bit .
    As long as it goes from home to home or Pro to Pro .
    And yes, back to 32 bit is no Problem.
      My Computer


  3. Posts : 4,453
    Win 11 Pro 22000.708
       #3

    Are you aware that you must do a clean install to change to a different "bitness"? All of your settings and installed programs will have to be re-installed.

    If you have already installed Win 10 as an upgrade, that's permissible, but it can be a lot of work.
      My Computers


  4. Posts : 14,046
    Windows 11 Pro X64 22H2 22621.1848
       #4

    You will also need 64 bit device drivers for any that the Windows 10 installer doesn't handle. Should not be a big deal as most if not all will be taken care of but if you do need to download drivers, make sure you get the 64 bit versions.
      My Computers


 

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