How do I upgrade from a 32-bit Operating System to the 64-bit version of Windows 7?


The Student Offer has been extended for those customers who wish to install the 64-bit version of Windows 7, but are currently running a 32-bit Operating System. Microsoft’s offer now includes a downloadable ISO file of Windows 7.

Note: You cannot install Windows 7 from the ISO file until you copy it to a USB flash drive or DVD. You will need an application to accomplish this. Creating a DVD will require a DVD burner connected to your computer.

Prepare your PC

As mentioned in earlier communications please run the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor prior to installing Windows 7. This will give you valuable insight into the steps needed to fully enjoy the Windows 7 experience on your computer.

http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windows-7/get/upgrade-advisor.aspx

Download the ISO Image of Windows 7

Please obtain these links by contacting Digital River customer support. The Windows 7 ISO file is large (>2GB). Please verify that you have sufficient hard disk space to download this file and install Windows 7. Approx. 20GB will be enough for both operations.

Download the Windows 7 ISO image and save the file to a location you can remember. The download may take a considerable amount of time on slower internet connections.

Installing Windows 7 using a bootable DVD

To install the 64-bit version of Windows 7 on a computer running Windows XP or the 32-bit version of Windows Vista, you must launch setup by first booting from the Windows 7 media. The most common way to do this is to use the Windows 7 DVD.

  1. Insert the Windows 7 DVD into the DVD drive of your computer.
  2. Cancel any auto-run of the installation program and restart your computer
  3. During the restart you should look for the message "Press any key to boot from CD or DVD…" Tap a key and enter Windows 7 setup.

If you do not see the "Press any key..." notice on restart, your computer may not be set to boot from your DVD drive. You will need to change a setting in the system hardware (BIOS). You should consult the information that was provided with your computer hardware or review information at the following link.
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-vista/Start-Windows-from-a-CD-or-DVD