Would like to Switch to 64bit from 32 with Windows 8 ?

[CASD]

It this possible..or will I loose everything ?

[v.laurie]

Originally Posted by CASD

It this possible..or will I loose everything ?

"Microsoft notes that you can’t keep any files, settings or software programs when you upgrade from 32-bit to 64-bit." Quote from gHacks

[Remah]

As Vic said, there is no upgrade (or downgrade) path between 32-bit and 64-bit Windows.

But we keep trying: "If I install Windows 7 32bit twice would that make it 64bit?"

[4goTTen21]

A way to go through could be install W8x64 without formatting. Later you can go to "Windows.old" folder and recover your files

[Remah]

Originally Posted by 4goTTen21

A way to go through could be install W8x64 without formatting. Later you can go to "Windows.old" folder and recover your files

A good point that is often forgotten.

@CASD, Microsoft have basic help on How to retrieve files from the windows.old folder

Although you can copy back your data and program files from windows.old, that will not recreate any registry entries for installed programs. So you should reinstall installed programs.

Before installing 64-bit Windows 8 make sure that you have a backup of your data files on separate media (external disk drive, DVD, USB stick, etc).

[Remah]

Also, if you're moving to 64-bit Windows to run 64-bit applications then you should also consider the upgrade paths for your programs. It's worth checking because some applications aren't a simple program upgrade.

You might, for example, have to export your 32-bit data and import it into the 64-bit version. And you can lose some features such as integration with 32-bit programs, controls and add-ons.

[Doobie]

Originally Posted by CASD

It this possible..or will I loose everything ?

In our quest for great things, we often ask if something is possible. But, we need to remember to ask if something is right. Sure, it's possible for me to activate the doomsday machine in my basement, but should I?

If you have under 4GB of RAM, you probably should keel the 32-bit Windows.