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When I try to install win8 64bit over winXp 32bit I get this error message: "Your installation media cannot be used to install windows. your current version of windows is 32-bit and does not match the architecture of the 64-bit installation media". I amd using the $69 installation disc and this computer is 64-bit cabable.

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You can't do an in-place upgrade of a 32-bit OS to 64-bit. See windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-8/… – heavyd Jan 21 at 19:07

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You cannot upgrade from a 32-bit operating system to a 64-bit operating system.

You need to boot from the disk and perform a clean install.

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SLaks, I tried a clean install but to do that I had to format the drive Xp was on (using the install disk). It installed OK but then the product key would not work; I assume it was because Xp was no longer there after the format. – PAL Jan 23 at 3:22

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