Switching to 32bit Vista from 64bit Vista

[Joel]

I purchased windows Vista Ultimate which contained both 32bit and 64bit
versions of which I installed 64bit. After much frustration over hardware
and software not being compatible I now would like to switch to the 32bit. I
do not want to uninstall 64bit. How can I accomplish this?

 

[philo]

I purchased windows Vista Ultimate which contained both 32bit and 64bit
versions of which I installed 64bit. After much frustration over hardware
and software not being compatible I now would like to switch to the 32bit.
I
do not want to uninstall 64bit. How can I accomplish this?

If you don't have a 2nd partition reconfigure
then install on the empty partition

 

[Mick Murphy]

Legally, you can only run one version at a time!

 

[Richard G. Harper]

In theory you could activate the 32-bit version without uninstalling the
64-bit version, but if you tried to run both versions you would be in
violation of your license. You are licensed to use only one or the other,
not both.

That said, your best bet is to back up important data and documents, wipe
the system, clean install the 32-bit version.

--
Richard G. Harper [MVP Shell/User] (e-mail address removed)
* NEW! Catch my blog ... http://msmvps.com/blogs/rgharper/
* PLEASE post all messages and replies in the newsgroups
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[R. C. White]

Hi, Joel.

My advice is to spend the effort to go forward with x64. It won't be any
harder than to go backward to x86 - and you'll have the inevitable
transition to x64 in your rear-view mirror, not waiting around the bend
ahead of you.

RC
--
R. C. White, CPA
San Marcos, TX
(e-mail address removed)
Microsoft Windows MVP
(Running Windows Live Mail 2008 in Vista Ultimate x64)

 

[Peter Foldes]

To switch to the 32 bit it would be best that you uninstall the 64 bit and then install the 32 bit. By trying to accomplish what you want to do can possibly work in theory but not in practice

 

[Gene_fitz]

There are only a couple ways to go about it.

1: Try to stick it out with 64 bit.
Look, Most hardware now has a 64 bit drivers, 90% of your drivers for 32 bit
will install under Program Files X86. The transition may be a little
difficult at first but give it a honest chance, and you may find it works
better.
2: Use an external or second drive to back up your mail (in Windows Mail
goto tools/options/advanced tab/Maintenance button/Store Folder
button/Change) And change your mail store folder to a folder on that
external drive.
Back up your favorites.
Then re-install in 32 bit.
You can't install 32 over 64, or 64 over 32. You have to re-install, and
start from scratch.

Sorry, wish I had better news..

 

[Gracie61]

When I purchased my computer. One of the BIG selling points of it was it has
Vista Ultimate and I am suppose to be able to use either 64bit or 32 bit...I
have yet to be able to change from 64 to 32.. My Computer Associates
antivirus is not compadable with 64..As well as my video converting
software..My computer did NOT come with any disks. Sowhat am I suppose to
do???

 

[John Barnes]

If your computer came installed with OEM 64-bit Vista Ultimate, you need to
contact the person who told you you would be able to use either. Retail
comes with this feature, but OEM does not and they would have to provide you
with a 32-bit version.

 

[Carey Frisch [MVP]]

Stay with the 32-bit version of Vista unless you have
programs specifically written for 64-bit Vista.

--
Carey Frisch
Microsoft MVP
Windows Shell/User

---------------------------------------------------------------

:

When I purchased my computer. One of the BIG selling points of it was it has
Vista Ultimate and I am suppose to be able to use either 64bit or 32 bit...I
have yet to be able to change from 64 to 32.. My Computer Associates
antivirus is not compadable with 64..As well as my video converting
software..My computer did NOT come with any disks. Sowhat am I suppose to
do???

 

[John Barnes]

He wants to change from 64-bit.

Stay with the 32-bit version of Vista unless you have
programs specifically written for 64-bit Vista.

--
Carey Frisch
Microsoft MVP
Windows Shell/User

---------------------------------------------------------------

:

When I purchased my computer. One of the BIG selling points of it was it
has
Vista Ultimate and I am suppose to be able to use either 64bit or 32
bit...I
have yet to be able to change from 64 to 32.. My Computer Associates
antivirus is not compadable with 64..As well as my video converting
software..My computer did NOT come with any disks. Sowhat am I suppose to
do???

 

[DevilsPGD]

In message <#[email protected]> "Carey Frisch [MVP]"

Stay with the 32-bit version of Vista unless you have
programs specifically written for 64-bit Vista.

I realize reading isn't your MVP specialty, but did he not indicate he
wants to switch to the 32-bit version?

In other words, you're suggesting he do what he's already trying to do.