Will a 32-bit serial key for Vista work when I install Vista 64-bit?

Was wondering if the same serial key that was provided with my laptop would work if I try to install 64-bit Vista on it. Would it only work on a 64-bit OEM version and not the retail, or on neither? or both?

Thanks guys.

 

Your key if for the 32 bit OEM copy only, and any other one that you try to install will not work with your original key that is on the bottom of the laptop.

 

Thanks for the reply adinu. Argh there goes my plan for trying to install with a 64-bit OEM cd.

 

OEM keys and disks can only be used by the machine that they came with. That's the rule.

If you want 64bit (which is questionable in it's own due to the many more incompatibilities compared to the 32bit version) then you have to buy it separately and install it with it's own key.

 

hmmm..
this is not exactly correct.
it is possible to install vista x64 with your current key (without having any activation issues what-so-ever ) .. I know this cause I have done so myself.
HOWEVER - I didn't checked about the legit of it.. so you should check for it.

one more thing you need to keep in mind - most oem vista dvd's does not include the x64 versions , you need to loan a friends dvd which have it (I know the Ultimate versions do).

again - you should check about the legit of this thing , I havn't done so myself

 

Thanks guys.

About OEM adinu, yes, they usually only work with the machines they came with but not always, there are some shops which sell OEM dvd's just like that, legally, when you buy other hardware from them too, not necessary a whole pc system even though they say say that. I'm aware of the many driver issues with 64-bit and such, but gonna give it a try anyhow, my machine has 4GB RAM and it'd be a bit of a pity if only 3 of the 4GB's could be used, if not not such a biggy, will just have to wait a little longer.

So Nir, you managed to get your vista 32-bit key working on a 64-bit vista copy, was that copy an oem or retail?

 

retail - ultimate version.
good luck

Edit : oh , and something that may be relevant - when vista asks your key press "Activate Later" , and when installation finish - activate it
could be working without this but I didn't try

 

I've read that the same keys are used for the 32-bit and 64-bit versions.