Can I upgrade my OS (win Xp Pro Sp3 32 bit) on my Toshiba Satellite Pro 300 with an Intel Centrino Dual core 2Ghz T7300 processor & 4Gb Ram, I'm looking to install Photoshop CS5 and to get the best out of it I need to be running a 64 bit OS

nigel, November 2011

Hi Nigel, you may want to check your hardware (e.g. video card etc) has a 64 bit driver available from the manufacturers website (or Toshiba support) - not all do and if so you may need to use a 64bit Vista driver to fill in. You won't be able to do an in place upgrade from 32bit to 64bit, it will be a clean install, as Electro says, backup all of your data before starting. Windows 7 is quick and easy to install (approx 15-20 mins)and uses less resources than previous OS - the interface is a bit different to XP but IMHO it is well worth the switch. I echo what Electro says about Vista; absolute bag of spanners, best steer well clear of it.

Sid, November 2011

Thank you

nigel, November 2011

Your CPU IS 64 bits.

So, YES, you can install a 64 bits OS.
If you have access to the 64 bits version of XP, you can use it.
You should NOT EVER try to use Vista.
Windows 7 should work correctly. It needs less CPU power than vista...

Backup ALL your data as it will probably reguire you to reformat the drive.

Now, you can't use all of your RAM, with the 64 bit OS, you will be able to use it all.

Electro, November 2011