32 bit version with 64 bit processor Other Vista Discussions Discuss 32 bit version with 64 bit processor in the Windows Vista forums; OK, I feel a little silly asking this question, but will the 32 bit version of Vista work with a 64 bit processor? I know that it wouldn't be ...

[The Yongler]

OK, I feel a little silly asking this question, but will the 32 bit version of Vista work with a 64 bit processor? I know that it wouldn't be the optimal set-up, but I'd like to know if it works.

Thanks in advance!

[Snuffy]

Hello, Welcome to VB.
and yes the 32bit system works very will with my
Windows Vista Ultimate (build 6000) Enclosure Type: Desktop
Processor a Main Circuit Board b
2.40 gigahertz AMD Athlon 64 X2 Dual Core
256 kilobyte primary memory cache
1024 kilobyte secondary memory cache
Board: ALiveXFire-eSATA2
Bus Clock: 200 megahertz
BIOS: American Megatrends Inc. P1.60 03/22/2007
.

[felix8406]

Most programs are written for the 32Bit version anyway, so I wouldn't say that running the 64Bit Vista version on the 64Bit processor is the "optimal" setup...at least not yet. I had the 64Bit version installed on my PC and decided to go back to the 32Bit because it's much easier to find drivers and applications for. The 32Bit version of Vista run just fine on a 64Bit processor.

[ewan_mclean]

Yes is the simple answer and you would probably be better to use a 32 bit version, because alot of the hardware devices in the 64 bit edition aren't compatible as the drivers haven't been written. Also 64 bit versions can't run all 32 bit software on them.

I got the 32 bit version simply because I cannot be bothered with all problems with that comes with new technology, they really need to get it right before I would consider buying the 64 bit version.

P.S, have you bought Vista yet?

[The Yongler]

Thanks a lot guys.

Yes, I already have the 32 bit version loaded on my HD. Now I am looking to upgrade my mobo and cpu since I am still running a 462 socket AMD chip.

[crabby]

What version of Vista do you have? Is it retail or OEM? If it is OEM you may have issues activating it on your new hardware.

crabby

[Snuffy]

It is also recommended that If you are upgrading or clean installing or what ever DO NOT ACTIVATE or try to ACTIVATE any version of XP or VISTA until the WGA is FIXED.

[The Yongler]

It's the OEM version and is already installed and activated on my HD. What kind of problems do you think I would run into with the new hardware?

[felix8406]

I think you'll do alright. The main thing is to keep track of every program you installed and make sure you don't install many of them at once, without first restarting the PC and trying each program out. Also, make sure you have System Restore turned on and create a Restore Point after installing all Vista updates, running Disk Cleanup and System Defragmenter. This way, if something goes wrong during a program installation, you'll have a good restore point.

[Snuffy]

Originally Posted by Snuffy

It is also recommended that If you are upgrading or clean installing or what ever DO NOT ACTIVATE or try to ACTIVATE any version of XP or VISTA until the WGA is FIXED.

WGA is fixed, so recommend you follow felix's advice, also get the latest APPROVED Drivers via MS. (Remember Reboot often, it is faster, safer than a total REDO or problems).