A computer technician needs to change a desktop computer's operating system from a 32-bit version of Windows 10 to a 64-bit version of Windows 10. Which of the following installation methods must the technician use to complete this upgrade?
- AAn in-place upgrade using 64-bit Windows installation media
- A clean installation after backing up all user data and settingsAnswer
- CAn edition upgrade using the Windows Change Product Key feature
- DAn application compatibility update executed from within the existing operating system
Answer
A clean installation after backing up user data is required to switch from a 32-bit architecture to a 64-bit architecture.
Direct in-place upgrades between 32-bit (x86) and 64-bit (x64) architectures are not supported by Microsoft Windows. Transitioning to a 64-bit OS requires backing up user data and performing a clean installation from bootable 64-bit installation media.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Upgrading from a 32-bit OS to a 64-bit OS always requires a clean installation. User files and applications must be backed up and restored manually or via migration tools.
Estimated Time:45s