Upgrading to Vista 64-bit Help

[SJHunter86]

I am trying to upgrade my current OS from Windows XP Professional 32-bit
version to Windows Vista Home Premium 64-bit. I recently upgraded to a 64-bit
mobo and a 64-bit cpu (2.2ghz intel core2duo) so I want to get the most out
of my system by upgrading my dated OS.

On the Windows Marketplace it offers a downloadable version of Windows Vista
Home Premium 64-bit FULL, since I know I can't use the upgrade version as my
OS is not 64-bit. I am wondering if I download the 64-bit FULL version if my
computer will still install it properly, or if I need to have it shipped and
partition it to my hard drive myself off the disc. Any help would be much
appreciated to assist my buying decision.

Steve Hunter

 

[Colin Barnhorst]

You CAN use an upgrade edition to migrate from XP x86 to Vista x64. Where
did you hear otherwise?

You may use a Vista Home Premium x64 upgrade edition to accomplish what you
want. VHP retail ships with the x86 dvd only but has instructions for
obtaining the x64 dvd for $9.95 shipping and handling. You can also order
the x64 dvd online at
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsvista/1033/ordermedia/default.mspx. It
takes about a week to get the dvd. You can only do this with retail
editions of Vista. So order VHP upgrade edition or full edition, your
choice, and when it arrives get online and use your VHP product key to order
the x64 dvd.

Once you have your x64 dvd, save your files and settings with the Windows
Easy Transfer wizard. Then you will boot the computer with the x64 dvd,
enter your product key, and then use Vista's disk tools to delete the
partition, create and new one, and format (not necessary but you can). Then
you perform a custom installation (by clicking a button). Finally, install
your apps and restore your files and settings (again with the WET wizard).