Upgrading

[aconstable]

Can anyone help or advise please!

I am running Vista Ultimate 32bit OEM version,I want to upgrade to a 64bit Version of Ultimate. So far I have been given the usual run around from both my computer manufacturer Mesh Computers and Microsoft, One says it is not possible to upgrade a OEM version,the other says it is possible providing I buy a full Edition of the Ultra.This will cost me including my original purchase of Ultra in the excess of £500.
Surely this is not right. Its not like I want to change my complete platform such as Windows XP to Vista,I already have all the feature that Vista Ultra has,I only want to change the bit rating.
Any advise would be welcomed

Cheers Alan

 

[CreepinJesus]

You can't 'upgrade' from 32 to 64 bit. You have to do a complete re-install, and for this you need a proper installation DVD, not just the recovery ones that the OEM sends with the computer.

 

[Dwarf]

Hi Alan,

In addition, you need to make sure that there are 64-bit drivers available for all of your hardware. If the drivers are available, you could save yourself a bit of money and get the upgrade version instead - see the following Tutorial for details on how to clean install using upgrade media http://www.vistax64.com/tutorials/68767-clean-install-upgrade-vista.html. Before you do so, ensure that you have created recovery discs and are able to restore your system to its original condition should you have cause to in the future.