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Should I install 64-bit versions of operating systems?

I installed the x86 version of Windows 7 on my HP 615 notebook, but then I've realised that I was able to install the 64 bit version. Should I reinstall? I don't really want to do it because I've already installed and configured a lot of applications here, so I want to know if there anything useful in the 64 bit version.

Oh maybe there is a way to upgrade without losing anything?

If it makes sense, I have 1GB RAM. I'm going to install another 1-2 GB, but not very soon

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closed as exact duplicate by David Pearce, Jeff Atwood♦ Oct 11 '09 at 8:37

This question covers exactly the same ground as earlier questions on this topic; its answers may be merged with another identical question. See the FAQ for guidance on how to improve it.

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Take a look at these:

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Hmm thanks. They are about the first install and the answer is to install 64 bit, but should I REinstall? And can I do it without losing all my settings and applications? – valya Oct 8 '09 at 4:50
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I wouldn't recommend it in your current standing. You don't gain many significant advantages only having 1GB of memory, and there is a (slight) chance of things breaking compatibility. You could easily avoid yourself a headache. – John T Oct 8 '09 at 4:58
thanks :) i'll mark your answer as correct, though Steve helped too, thanks Steve! – valya Oct 8 '09 at 7:17
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up vote 2 down vote

To answer the installation question, if you have a 32-bit installation of Windows you will have to reinstall. There is no way to keep your applications. You will have to reinstall them all. You can keep your settings, files, etc. though. Use the Easy Transfer tool that comes with Windows to do that.

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up vote 1 down vote

Unless you need some 64-bit CPU feature (mainly to run 64-bit virtual machines), or you need 4GB or more... no, don't bother. For a few things like databases, performance might be slightly better, but mostly 64-bit is just a step to the future. It's not like the huge leap you got back in the 8-bit to 16/32-bit transition.

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