converting to windows 64

[messiah34]

How do you go about switching from XP pro to windows 64. I am not planning on doing it now as I know a friend who couldn't get drivers for everything. I am planning on waiting till around christmas, but how do you go from your current windows to a differnt one? Will I lose all my stuff from my current OS ect?

[GaryRouth]

Hi messiah34

Here's the homepage for Windows XP Pro 64-bit Edition
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/64bit/default.mspx

On that homepage you'll find links to as much information as you can imagine about the 64-bit version.

Regarding going to the 64-bit from 32-bit, the FAQs from Microsoft suggest that it's a clean install - though perhaps a transfer wizard might be able to bridge a few settings --

Here's the related FAQ -
Q. Can I upgrade from 32-bit Windows XP Professional to Windows XP Professional x64 Edition?
A. No, you can't upgrade. You can use the Technology Advancement Program until the end of July, 2005, to exchange your copy of Windows XP Professional for the x64 Edition of Windows XP Professional, but doing so replaces your existing license with the new license. The actual installation of Windows XP Professional x64 Edition is a fresh install, not an upgrade. All your programs will have to be reinstalled, and if you have data on the same drive as your operating system, it will be wiped out. Make a thorough backup of your important files before doing the installation.

Best of luck
. . . Gary