No upgrade is possible from x32 to x64...
Custom instal (clean instal) is required.
Main Topics
Browse All TopicsI have a machine running windows Vista Ultimate 32-bit version. When I upgrade to Windows 7, I'd like to upgrade to the 64 bit version. Can I purchase and install the Windows 7 64-bit upgrade edition and simply upgrade the machine? I have a nasty feeling I need to do a clean install, but I am hoping Microsoft have built in this upgrade path so I don't have to do a clean install and re-install all these apps and all the de-activation and re-activation that goes with that.
This Question has been solved and asker verified All Experts Exchange premium technology solutions are available to subscription members.
Experts Exchange has been collecting answers to technology questions since 1996…3 million and counting! If you have a question, chances are we already have your answer.
If you can't find the exact answer you're looking for, ask our exclusive community of 50,000 experts. You’ll get a personalized answer from a trusted professional.
Thousands of free tech tips, tricks, how-to’s and tutorials are available in our peer reviewed articles section. See for yourself how smart our experts are, no login required.
Access the answers to your technology questions today.
30-day free trial. Register in 60 seconds.
Members of the expert community talk about why the experience at Experts Exchange is different than what you will find anywhere else.

Try it out and discover for yourself.
30-day free trial. Register in 60 seconds.
Join the community of experts here and help other tech pros by answering question in your area of expertise. You can earn FREE access to all Experts Exchange's premium features and resources.
Business Accounts
Answer for Membership
by: alienvoicePosted on 2009-11-03 at 19:47:20ID: 25736225
Sorry to tell you but you can't upgrade from Vista 32 bit to Windows 7 64 bit. You will have to do a fresh/clean install.