Vista 32/64 or my old XP?

[Durga]

was thinking of building my first pc, if I buy an OS should I get Vista 32 or Vista 64?

I was going to just use XP (will work with 4gb ram but only recognise 3gb, yes?) and get vista later but I suppose I should get an OEM version now whilst buying components

please humour the clueless, thankyou

[alsenior]

if your going to get vista get vista 64

[Blitzen]

If the cashflow allows then definitely go for Vista 64 bit.

[directhex]

if your old xp is oem, it's not licensed for use on a new pc

[Durga]

if your old xp is oem, it's not licensed for use on a new pc

have an old computer using W98 and updates for my firewall were discontinued for this, so was using a corporate edition as a stop gap. so I don't need special 64 bit SW to run on it, I can use 32 bit progs?

[Andaho]

if your old xp is oem, it's not licensed for use on a new pc

yeah, so don't build a "new" PC, just upgrade everything on your old PC - when calling microsoft if the automatic activation fails, just tell them you had to get a new motherboard - that's it, no more questions.

[0iD]

Vista x64 is the way foward. Never had any probs with it myself.
The only problem you 'may' have is in using old kit or old software. Check your fave/most used apps are Vista compatible.

[Durga]

thanks for your answers, I've not had to be interested in this until now, so any new software and games now released will generally be compatible then?

[theForumCity]

The only issue with Vista x64 will be the drivers and old programs... just make sure you can get all of your software for x64 and you are good to go

[0iD]

so any new software and games now released will generally be compatible then?

In probably 99% of cases, yes, games certainly.

[Andeh13]

Iv got x64 and havnt had too many problems with it. Given a choice id certainly stick with it.

[The Codfather]

I've been running Vista Ultimate x64 on my new build for just under a week and I couldn't be happier.
General responsiveness with 4GB is fantastic, gaming is no problem and I've yet to come accross any instability or incompatible software or hardware.

Definitely recommended.