Windows Vista Licensing Question

I have a full copy of Vista Ultimate, that only has a 32 bit DVD. I am going to have to re-install at some point in the future, because i cant install SP1 for some annoying reason, but was wondering whether my licence will cover the 64bit version instead (if i got hold of the disc)?

 

Yes, apparently. A 32-bit key will install the same 64-bit version. As long as you get the correct media, you're good to go.

 

Ah, excellent. Is it legal to get hold of the disc via 'questionable' methods in this situation?

 

That's up to you, it should work though. (I would).

Might be hard finding the right version of the disc though (OEM vs. Retail vs. Dell etc)

 

Would it be the Microsoft Windows Vista Ultimate x64 Retail Edition DVD that i need?

 

I thought the retail version of Ultimate was the only one to ship with both x86 and x64? Of course, I have no brain, so take that under advisement.

But yes, you can get it directly from Microsoft for a small fee plus shipping here.

 

What version is your current 32-bit license? Retail? OEM? Did it come with your computer?

 

I may be wrong here, but I think the media is the same (as in just two version, 64, and 32 bit) on all versions. it's just the key you enter that determines what version will be installed. I know this is true for volume licenses, but I'm unsure about retail/oem.

 

The key works on both versions. You can get ahold of the media whatever way you wish, provided the key is legal than Microsoft don't care.

 

I'm not entirely sure... i got it from a Microsoft Focus Group i did, so it says the following on the back

It's def full vista ultimate tho...

 

If you call up Microsoft's media replacement department, give them your license key and ask for the 64-bit version, they will ship it with the same license code for only $10. Can't go wrong as it's completely legit.

 

Do you happen to know where I can find that number for the UK?

 

I do not know the direct number, but you can call the number listed here and ask to be transfered:

http://www.microsoft.com/uk/licensing/homeuser/contact-us.mspx

 

You can order the alternative DVD (64bit in your case) here
IIRC... mine (for Home Premium) cost £7.68?

And yes... you can use the same serial for both/either version

 

Great. That website wont let me order a 64bit version as it says it should have been in the box. However, my disc only includes the 32bit, and it's the only disc i have...

 

What kind of cover did it come in? Retail should be in this large cover with two rounded corners, while the OEM comes in a (transparent) DVD cover.

The latter only support one version.

 

It's neither - it's a bright orange dvd case that says Ready for A New Day on the front! As i say - it's a promo copy that they gave me at a focus group i did for MS.

 

Just call them up, it's your best bet.

 

jus d/l the 64 bit version anywhere and use your own key, since you have a legal key they wont care.

 

It's what I've just done today, got hold of an x64 iso and installed using a 32-bit key. Chuffed to bits it works!