Can I use a Windows 32-bit key and turn it into 64 bit?

[somerandomasian]

Hi, I am building my first computer, and my friend said he could give me a 32-bit key, probably OEM. Is it possible I could make it into 64-bit as I am installing it into my computer? And if not, should I invest the money in 64-bit?

 

[nisuta]

To my knowledge, the key's not locked to an architecture - you should be able to use the same key for a 32-bit OR 64-bit install.

 

[Supermuncher85]

Not necessarily. If you buy reatil, the keys work for both. If your friend has a OEM key it won't. But I don't know of a way to check the key if it is OEM or retail.

 

[nisuta]

If your friend has a OEM key it won't. But I don't know of a way to check the key if it is OEM or retail.

I didn't know that.

Well, provided the friend has a physical disk for the key, it should be easy to find out at least.