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Does Windows 7 Prof 64-bit OEM licensing allow for 32-bit install instead? RRS feed

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    I've found several references to this question but they all refer to changing types (Home to Pro, downgrade rights to Vista or XP).  I have a customer who is not sure whether their customer software will work on the 64-bit edition, if I purchase the 64-bit edition for their new computers and the 64-bit doesn't work, can I install the 32-bit version (of Windows 7 Professional) instead without violating the license?  I can purchase either the 64-bit or 32-bit from distribution, but it doesn't say whether the license is interchangeable.
    Tuesday, October 19, 2010 8:23 PM

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    The licenses and keys work for both 32 bit and 64 bit. You or they will need to obtain the appropriate 32 bit media. My suggestion would be for them to order some with 32 bit media and some with 64 bit, therefore they have the media needed to install either. Again, the key will work with either media as long as both are professional.
    • Marked as answer by Darin Smith MS Thursday, October 21, 2010 8:34 PM
    Tuesday, October 19, 2010 10:46 PM
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    You are allowed to use a 64bit key on a 32bit install. Microsoft says use the one that suites you.
    • Marked as answer by Darin Smith MS Thursday, October 21, 2010 8:34 PM
    Tuesday, October 19, 2010 8:27 PM

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    You are allowed to use a 64bit key on a 32bit install. Microsoft says use the one that suites you.
    • Marked as answer by Darin Smith MS Thursday, October 21, 2010 8:34 PM
    Tuesday, October 19, 2010 8:27 PM
  • Question
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    The licenses and keys work for both 32 bit and 64 bit. You or they will need to obtain the appropriate 32 bit media. My suggestion would be for them to order some with 32 bit media and some with 64 bit, therefore they have the media needed to install either. Again, the key will work with either media as long as both are professional.
    • Marked as answer by Darin Smith MS Thursday, October 21, 2010 8:34 PM
    Tuesday, October 19, 2010 10:46 PM