64-bit to 32-bit, from 32-bit to 64-bit

[bdsmith63]

I read your question about downgrading to 32-bit from 64. I am running 32-bit on a PC and upgrading my Vista Home Premium to Windows 7 Home Premium. I have upgraded it to 32-bit Win 7, but if I want to "upgrade" it to 64-bit is this possible? or do I have to do a CLEAN install for 64-bit? AND does the PC have to be built to run 64-bit? I have 2.5GB memory, and it's a new and fairly fast processor but came w/ Vista on it when I bought it. The Microsoft Upgrade Advisor said to upgrade to 32-bit, but is that because I am already running 32 bit?

[EzyStvy]

bdsmith63 - converting to or from 32 bit and 64 bit requires a clean install.

And yes you must have a 64 bit CPU inorder to install the 64 bit OS. Do you know the make and model number of your cpu?

[Statica]

Note: I've moved your post into a new thread .. helps keep the information consistent.

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It's not just the CPU you should be checking that only allows for making sure that you have a 64bit architecture.
Since the compatibility advisor isn't doing it .. it would help if you went through your hardware components and made sure they had compatible 64bit drivers for Win7.

Alternately, if you have a name brand computer (Dell, HP etc etc), check to see if their support site has Win7 64bit driver options .. if they do, you can be assured that your CPU is 64bit capable as well.