Need to replace an HD w/32 bit vista with an HD w/64 bit win7

dross1782

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Sep 18, 2013
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10,510
I have a 1 TB HD w/windows 7(64bit) that I want to put in a computer that has a 300(ish) gb HD/w vista (32 bit). What is the best course of action to make a swap?
 

cklaubur

Distinguished
You can't just plug in a hard drive from one computer to another and expect Windows to just work, since Windows requires different drivers for different motherboards. Also, there is a potential licensing issue.

Your best bet is to do a clean install once you get the hard drive you want in the computer.

Casey
 

smoothdude

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May 10, 2011
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This all depends on what you are trying to do. Are you just trying to upgrade HD space, or are you trying to go from 32-bit to 64-bit OS? As previously stated if Windows detects significant changes to your hardware it will require you to purchase a new license, however, that being said the most simple answer is simply swap out the hard drive, boot into Windows, and see if there are drivers that are needed.