Keeping old files and programs upgrading from 32-bit Win 7 to 64-bit Win 8.1

MrFunktastic

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Jun 26, 2014
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I'm building a new PC and I want to use my old HDDs. My previous PC ran on 32-bit Win 7 and I plan on running 64-bit Win 8.1 on my new rig. I know I will have to do a clean install, but would creating a system image using Win 7's backup wizard keep all my personal files and programs while I upgrade to 64-bit Win 8.1? If not, is there a way to keep/backup my files besides the old fashioned way?
 
Solution
Applications will need to be reinstalled. You can't 'keep' them.

The only stuff that really matters is your personal files. Everything else can be recreated/reinstalled.