Can I upgrade from Windows 7 32bit to 64bit without formatting? [duplicate]
Solution 1:
No. x86/32-bit to x64/64 bit is not supported in any version of Windows.
See also: Upgrade from Windows 7 32 bit to 64 bit
Tip for your friend:
- Almost any CPU sold in the last decade is 64 bit capable.
- You can look it up on the web, but briefly
If it is an AMD it will be 64bit capable (those have been that way for ages).
If it is an Intel check on http://ark.intel.com/ - He could just have tried the 64 bit version of Windows 7. Worst case it would fail during the installation.