64bit Vista now or later?

Hello everyone, I've just purchased a Lenovo T61 with Vista 32bit and from reading around here I don't think I need 64bit. I'm confused about a couple of things though.

I've heard I can get 64bit disks for free, is this true?

Do I get them from Lenovo or MS?

Will I always be able to get them for free?

Should I just get them now in case I ever decide to go 64bit?

Thanks.

 

sure. go ahead and pick up the disks.

but don't install them. lock them inside a box. then lock the key in a separate box.

put the safety on the trigger. holster.

supply the code word and flip both switches at the same time.

i think you understand.

 

So you're saying XP?

 

Why not simplify things and just get XP x64?

 

Only the Ultimate version has the 32-bit and 64-bit on one DVD. All other retail versions come in 32-bit only, after which you'd have to order the 64-bit version for an extra ~$10 USD.

And this applies for the retail version only. If you order a laptop with Vista preinstalled (otherwise known as the OEM version), you get the choice of 32-bit or 64-bit at the time you place the order, BUT once you pick you're stuck with that version.

 

And for those of us who were not fortunate enough to have the option of 32 or 64 at the time of purchase through the notebook manufacturer, then what?

 

^^Well that's up to the notebook manufacturer whether or not they want to offer it. I suppose many of them do not even offer 64-bit due to the current lack of 64-bit software or driver support.

In which case you're pretty much relegated to the 32-bit version, and forced to buy the Retail package separately if you want 64-bit. Check with your notebook manufacturer, though, for the final word.