Teching It Easy: Windows Vista & 7: Windows x64

64-Bit News Round Up - x64 Driver Signing Update

Fri, 03 Aug 2007 21:42:37 GMT

Hi, it’s Scott Field, Windows Security Architect, again. Microsoft recently became aware of a third party kernel mode driver named “Atsiv” which provides a deliberate means of loading code that conflicts with the Kernel Mode Code Signing (KMCS) policy included in Windows Vista x64 editions. In Windows Vista x64 editions, the default KMCS policy is to only allow code to load into the kernel if it has been digitally signed with a valid code signing certificate.
The Atsiv driver also provides a means to load unsigned kernel mode code in a manner that is not visible through operating system provided API interfaces (such as the EnumDeviceDrivers() API), and this may allow the code to hide from view of commonly deployed tools. Installing the Atsiv driver requires administrative privileges, so there is no security vulnerability related to the default case in Windows Vista where users run with limited permissions through the User Account Control feature.
Microsoft is committed to protecting its customers from potential as well as actual security threa[t]s; accordingly, we are responding to this issue as follows:

Windows Defender released a signature update on August 2, 2007 that allows detection, blocking, and removal of the current Atsiv driver. Classification of the Atsiv software was done in accordance with the objective criteria used by the Windows Defender team to assess the characteristics of potentially unwanted software.
Certificate revocation has occurred as of August 2, 2007. Microsoft has worked with partners in the code signing certification authority ecosystem to assess the Atsiv issue. VeriSign has revoked the code signing key used to sign the Atsiv kernel driver, which means the code signing key will no longer be considered valid.
The security team at Microsoft is investigating adding the revoked key to the kernel mode code signing revocation list, as an additional defense in depth measure. The kernel mode revocation mechanism requires a system reboot in order for the new revocation list to take effect, which is consistent with other Microsoft updates which require and subsequently trigger a reboot.

Read the rest here

64-Bit PCs: Drivers Wanted

"Now that they're 64 (bits, that is), personal computers are still searching for developers to need them and feed them.
In 2003, Advanced Micro Devices released 64-bit chips for PCs in the form of the Athlon 64, and Intel followed suit in 2005. But the software needed to take advantage of those chips is harder to find than a Beatles song on iTunes."
Read the rest here
My say: Its not so much as lack of drivers, but the lack in quality of the drivers for 64-bit Windows that developers are giving customers. I have been running 64-Bit Windows since 2005 and all my hardware has worked just fine with OS. Stability continues to be the main issue and I am not sure shy its still such a sticky issue. Some factors come to mind such as demand and or complexity to write device drivers for the platform.

ActiveWin.com: AMD Athlon 64 X2 6000+ Processor - Review

"Byron has just posted his review of AMD's Athlon 64 X2 6000+ Processor. Here is an excerpt:
AMD has been the king of 64-bit computing for some time now and no matter what Intel has attempted to throw in front of them, AMD have hurdled over it. With the release of the new AMD AM2 Motherboards and processors AMD are now not only pushing the envelope on the 64-bit and Dual Core front, they are reducing the amount of energy and power that the processors take up, thus producing quieter and cooler PC's. The big question is, has the wait for the new AM2 processors and motherboards been worth it? Do we see any benefit from using DDR2 memory compared to the old DDR2 on the previous Socket 939 processors, read on and we'll find out. This review will also concentrate on the future impact the processor will have when used with Windows Vista, we'll be putting it through its paces on both the 32-bit and 64-bit versions of the new operating system to see what bearing they have on this chip."

Technorati tags: x64 Driver Signing, Vista, 64-Bit, Device Drivers, AMD 64, AMD Athlon 64 X2 6000+, CPU, Apple, Security, ActiveWin, Byron Hinson, Reviews

Vista x64 in a bad mood

Mon, 11 Jun 2007 19:53:37 GMT

Click image to enlarge

I logged into Windows Vista Ultimate x64 and was surprised how long it took to reach and load the desktop. That was the least of the problems I experienced, after it finally loaded up, I was greeted by a bunch of errors and noticed that Windows AERO was turned off. I'm not complaining, but it seems Vista x64 is very buggy and just does not feel optimized for the 64 bit processors out there. It takes a longer time to boot up I've noticed and still suffers from the compatibility issues that plagued XP Pro x64. I hope Microsoft's Problems and Solutions applets is taking note of these problems and sending it back to Redmond to the right team. Hopefully SP1 will resolve most of the performance issues that remain so far in the RTM and glitches that are becoming more annoying.

Technorati tags: Windows Vista x64, 64-Bit, Application Compatibility, AMD64, Intel EM64T, SP1, Vista SP1, Errors, Problem Reports and Solutions

The Downsides of 64-bit Windows Vista - Driver and application support

Tue, 29 May 2007 20:00:20 GMT

From Softpedia

"Microsoft delivers Windows Vista in both 32-bit and 64-bit flavors. While a system configuration with a x64 processor certainly recommends one of the 64-bit editions of Windows Vista, these versions of the operating system do come with downsides that customers need to be aware of. Being essentially identical to 32-bit Windows Vista, the 64-bit editions will deliver support for 32-bit applications without any problems. This aspect is one of the pillars of the transition to 64-bit. Users are encouraged to adopt
the next wave in computing technology while still being able to enjoy the same programs they used to on their 32-bit system. However, 64-bit Vista does not offer support for 16-bit applications or components. Old solutions designed for platforms that preceded 32-bit will not function on x64 Vista."

Read the entire article here

Resources:

HOW-TO: Switch to Windows Vista 64-bit painlessly by Kris Kenney

Technorati tags: Windows Vista x64, Vista, 64-bit, Softpedia, Device Drivers, Application Compatibility, Kris Kenney, x86, x64, Canucky.net

Vista as the last 32-bit Client OS from MS not Confirmed

Thu, 17 May 2007 22:41:55 GMT

From Windows Vista Team Blog

Quote:

"A few folks took Bill’s comments on Windows Server and applied them to Windows Client deriving that Windows Vista would be the last 32-bit operating system. That is an incorrect extension. While Windows Vista includes both 32-bit and 64-bit and there is a growing community of drivers for 64-bit Windows Vista we have not decided when Windows Client will follow Windows Server and become 64-bit only.

Read the rest here

There you have it, straight from the horses mouth.

Technorati tags: Windows Vista, 64-bit, 32-bit, x64, x86, Windows Server 2008, Windows Server 2008 R2, Longhorn R2, Centro, Cougar, 2009, Vienna, Windows 7, WinHEC 2007, Windows Vista Team Blog

Correct Disk Cleanup shortcut for Windows Vista 64-bit

Mon, 30 Apr 2007 16:50:35 GMT

From Canucky.net

Quote:

"If you are using a 64-bit (x64) version of Windows Vista, then this is something you should know. By default, the shortcut in the Start menu points to the 32-bit (x86) executable for Disk Cleanup. While Disk Cleanup will work fine from this shortcut for most things, there is one function that does not work correctly – the cleaning of System Restore points and Shadow Copies / Previous Versions."

Read the entire tip here

Thanks Kris!

Technorati tags: Windows Vista, Vista x64, 64-bit, Tips and Tricks, Disk Cleanup, System Restore, Shadow Copy, Previous Versions, Administrative Tools

Who wants or needs 64 bits?

Mon, 06 Mar 2006 15:36:23 GMT

From News.com

Quote:

"It looks like the world isn't clamoring for 64-bit desktops just yet.

Nearly two and a half years have passed since 64-bit processors started going into PCs. But the software to take full advantage of these chips remains scarce, and customers aren't buying much of what's out there. The 64-bit chips provide greater performance than their older 32-bit counterparts, but that's because of speed upgrades and other architectural enhancements.

Except for a few workstation users, almost no one is getting much from the 64-bitness of these computers.

"64-bit is sellable as bigger, faster, but in terms of what it does for you, there is very little at the moment," said Roger Kay, president of analyst firm Endpoint Technologies.

The dearth can be seen in a lot of ways. Microsoft released a 64-bit version of Windows for desktops last May, but has sold few copies, according to analysts. A site created by Advanced Micro Devices, the biggest proponent of 64-bit desktops, lists only six games tweaked for 64-bit computing and one partial upgrade."

Read the rest here

My Views

I have been running Windows XP Professional x64 since April of 2005, and I have to say I am very pleased with the operating system and responsiveness of my system. The benefits are not realized from 64-bit computing itself since I am running a system consist of basic desktop applications such Office, Photoshop and Nero which I use everyday, none of these applications are 64-bit native, but they run just fine.

The system was not purchased as a future proof move, thinking that it would run Windows Vista at full speed when its released, it was purchased primarily for enthusiasm and I needed a new home system and I am pleased with it. Its doing what I need and I enjoy using it everyday when I come home from work. Obtaining Windows XP Professional x64 was not difficult at all. I had my OEM copy purchased from http://www.directron.com

You can purchase the trial from the following online vendors also.
http://www.planetamd64.com/catalog
http://www.ncix.com
http://www.newegg.com
http://www.zipzoomfly.com

Hopefully though, the next major release of Windows, Vista will bring 64-bit computing mainstream. I believe it will, since Vista will include technologies that were not available Windows XP Professional x64 such as Media Center and Tablet PC which are beginning to take off. So, I expect to see more innovation from the hardware industry with desktops and mobile PCs that can do it all. All I can say really, there is exciting stuff coming in the 2007 to 2008 period. XP Professional x64 was just a start and does have its benefits for targetted environments.

Windows XP Professional x64 is definitely not an operating system for the average Windows user who is doing basic stuff such as browsing the net or sending e-mails and writing one page documents in Word. But it is likely that by the end of this year, any PC purchased will be 64 bit enabled, which does not necessarily mean you are ready for a 64 bit OS. But it does give the user a sense of comfort knowing the capability is there ready to be taken advantage of by a largely supported 64-bit OS.

The true beneficiaries are the technical ones in the technical environments who require the massive amounts of power this platform provides. Within the next 2 to 3 years 64 bit computing supported hardware and software should be more available than it is today and users will better take advantage of it with the appropriate applications written for the consumer market, so far that is not available.

My Resources:
PlanetAMD64
Extended64
x(perts)64
Paul Thurrott’s Windows x64 Preview
microsoft.public.windows.64bit.general
Technology Exchange Program
Windows XP Professional x64 FAQs

My Articles:
Windows XP Professional x64, good or bad start?
Are those 64-bit questions about to be answered...by Microsoft?

Open Zone Alarm 64-bit BETA Program

Tue, 14 Feb 2006 23:38:53 GMT

Thanks to Patrick in the Windows 64-bit General Newsgroups for this.

"Hello Beta Testers,

Zone Labs is proud to announce our newest beta, designed specifically for 64 bit Operating Systems. Please note that this version should NOT be installed on a 32 bit Operating System!!!

This is an early look at our 64 bit version. This version is not fully stable, and you should not run it in a production environment.

I'm giving you the link now, but it won't be live for a few hours yet:

http://www.zonelabs.com/beta

This is an open preview version, so feel free to share the link with anyone else who would like to test it.

Marcus & Claus
For the Zone Labs Beta Team"

Update: IntelliPoint and IntelliTypePro for XP Pro x64 Now Available

Thu, 05 Jan 2006 21:33:17 GMT

From Microsoft Hardware

Download "IntelliPoint" Drivers for Windows XP Professional x64 here

Download "ItelliType Pro" Drivers for Windows XP Professional x64 here

Users of Windows x64 and posters in the Windows 64-Bit newsgroups have been pleading for native drivers for the Microsoft Mice and Keyboards, its good to know it wasn't all in vain. Credit to all of us, Darrell and everyone at Microsoft for making this become a reality. I guess rants really work. :)

Thanks to Andrew Ahearne for corrections on downloads

Intelli-Point 5.5 drivers for Windows XP Professional x64 Now available

Thu, 05 Jan 2006 00:21:13 GMT

From Microsoft Hardware via Outside the Cube

Qoute:

Microsoft mice and keyboards currently have basic functionality with the 64-bit versions of Windows. In order for advanced features like Magnifier and Tilt Wheel to function, IntelliPoint and IntelliType Pro version 5.5 device software is required. Version 5.5 supports Windows XP Professional x64 and is available via web download now.

Download here

Notice: The intellitype 5.5 software is still not avilable to download atm of this message. (Thanks DKI)

Dual or Multi-Booting including Windows XP Professional x64 Edition

Thu, 22 Dec 2005 19:22:36 GMT

From x(perts)64

Over the years, I’ve run more than one operating system on almost all of my every day systems. As a writer about technology and operating systems, I’m constantly working with new (and often beta) operating systems as I learn their ins and outs to write about them. Since I generally have to buy my own hardware, that means making the most of the hardware I do have, and dual booting, or multi-booting, can be an effective solution. Several years ago, when the Windows Expert Zone was getting started, I wrote a column about multi-booting, and much of it is still true today. But obviously, Windows XP Professional x64 Edition didn’t exist back then, so let’s talk about the specifics of how to do it with x64 Edition.

Read the rest here

Microsoft Virtual Server 2005 R2 x86 and x64 evaluation available

Tue, 06 Dec 2005 22:57:42 GMT

From Bink.nu

Qoute:

"A complete virtual machine solution, Virtual Server 2005 R2 features robust storage, networking, and management features in an easy-to-use package that includes a simple, seven-step installation and a convenient Web-based management console. Virtual Server 2005 R2 provides hardware benefits through virtual machine isolation, while resource management enables multiple workloads to coexist on fewer servers. In addition, organizations benefit from increased administrator productivity throughout the phases of the IT life cycle.

Complemented by Microsoft’s award winning Windows Server 2003 operating system, Virtual Server 2005 R2 provides a powerful, cost-effective virtual machine platform as part of the Windows Server System™.

Virtual Server 2005 R2 (x86) EE 180 Day Evaluation

Virtual Server 2005 R2 (x64) EE 180 Day Evaluation

Microsoft Virtual Server 2005 Updated Additions

Perfect Disk 7.0 for x64 Now Available

Tue, 06 Dec 2005 22:55:01 GMT

From X(perts)64

Qoute:

"Moving to a new platform is always painful. One of those pains is software that you’ve come to love and depend on not being available on the new platform, and not really finding a suitable replacement. I’ve had several of those since moving to x64 full time, and they’re slowly getting resolved. The first, and undoubtedly the most important, little utility I missed was Dave’s Quick Search Deskbar, my front end to the world in many ways. Fortunately, a fellow Microsoft MVP, Kim Gräsman, is the current maintainer for this great little piece of Open Source software, and he was able to whip up a 64–bit version of it for me, and I then created a crude but functional installer to get it onto my x64 machines. The next was WinZIP which is functionally impaired in x64 Edition. They appear to be in no hurry to fix the problem, but fortunately, WinRAR has a very able replacement that gives me all the functionality I need in x64 Edition."

Read the rest here

Changes to Functionality in Microsoft Windows XP Professional x64 Edition

Fri, 25 Nov 2005 15:10:29 GMT

From Microsoft

Qoute

Abstract

This document provides information regarding features in Windows XP Professional x64 Edition that differ in functionality from Windows XP Professional Service Pack 2 (SP2). It is important to note that this document uses the Windows XP Professional SP2 feature set as the baseline for comparison with Windows XP Professional x64 Edition. Features not documented here are at parity with Windows XP Professional SP2 and function the same way."

Download the document here

Exchange 12, Longhorn SBS, Centro Will Be 64-Bit

Wed, 16 Nov 2005 15:15:01 GMT

From eWeek

Qoute:

Microsoft Corp. is pushing forward with its plan to embrace 64-bit computing across all its products and has decided that the next version of Microsoft Exchange, known as Microsoft Exchange Server "12," as well as the upcoming Windows Server "Longhorn" Small Business Server and Centro, Microsoft's infrastructure solution for midsize businesses, will only be released as 64-bit and optimized for x64 hardware.

Bob Muglia, senior vice president of Microsoft Server and Tools, announced this at the IT Forum being held in Barcelona, Spain. He also said that while the first release of the upcoming next-version Windows Server family of products, code-named Longhorn, will be both 32-bit and 64-bit, the future update release to that, known as Windows Server "Longhorn" R2, will bring the complete transition to 64-bit-only hardware, while still benefiting from 32-bit and 64-bit application compatibility."

Read the rest here

This should also kill any speculation or question whether there will be 32-bit Windows Blackcomb Server. I predict the same on the client side, since Blackcomb won't be ready until 2010/2011. Longhorn Server R2 should be coming out in 2009.

Expert Zone Support WebCast: Overview of Microsoft Windows XP Professional x64 Edition

Wed, 09 Nov 2005 16:40:42 GMT

From Microsoft

Wednesday, November 09, 2005: 10:00 A.M. Pacific time (Coordinated Universal Time -7 hours)

This Expert Zone Support WebCast provides an overview of the Microsoft Windows XP Professional x64 Edition architecture. The WebCast includes information about the AMD processors and Intel processors that support Windows XP Professional x64 Edition. This session discusses hardware and software choices. This session also discusses many of the early issues that were experienced in the user community.

More information here

Webcast x64 Edition

Tue, 08 Nov 2005 18:07:20 GMT

From Charlie Russel

Hey, folks, I'll be doing another round (with updates) of my Introduction to Windows XP Professional x64 Edition on Wednesday morning. Feel free to drop by and ask good questions. (good questions being defined as one's I
know the answer to, of course.)

Here's the link for the WebCast:

http://support.microsoft.com/?id=909753

Introducing - Online.NET 64

Sat, 06 Aug 2005 23:50:20 GMT

Well, here's great upcoming little resource I recently encountered in the world of 64 bit computing which is growing very fast. Online .NET 64, bringing the latest in 64 bit computing, support with drivers, news and all thats concerned with Windows x64.

Check them out here

Preparing for Longhorn RTM - Buying a machine Today or in the future (2006)

Fri, 08 Jul 2005 23:18:53 GMT

From Extended64.com

I was just listening to a great show talking about purchasing a dual core processor machine either a AMD64 or Intel EM64T on the Chris Pirillo Show with Ryan Hoffman of Extended64.com. Should you invest in a machine today or in the future closer to the release of Windows Longhorn in 2006 from either Intel or AMD?

Listen to the interview here [Windows Media Player]

By the way, Chris made a great point about investing in a machine closer to release since you are more certain that a machine released around late Q1 or early Q2 of 2006 will definitely be fully compatible with Longhorn.

SATA Drives and F6

Sun, 12 Jun 2005 20:48:50 GMT

Many of the 64–bit machines being built and sold today come with Serial Advanced Technology Attachment (SATA) drives, which is a good thing – SATA is a better technology than standard IDE(Integrated Drive Electronics) or ATA (Advanced Technology Attachment). Some day maybe we’ll blog about why SATA is better — there are lots of advantages, but right now I want to talk about what SATA might mean to you if you’re trying to install Windows XP Professional x64 Edition on your computer.

Read the rest and learn more here

I am a staff member of Extended64.com

Tue, 31 May 2005 21:20:35 GMT

Hey everyone, great news, I was recently made a staff member of extended64.com. Its great to be a part of website and team of people that are fully charged about 64 bit computing and the Windows x64 platform. I also have a blog there you can check out to find out about whats going on in the world of 64 bit computing, both hardware and software.

I definitely will not be giving up my MSN Space, I would never trade it for a thing in the computing world, its very precious to me. But I consider being a part of great websites like Extended64 and ActiveWin an opportunity to be more in touch with what I love most, technology, especially Microsoft technology. So, this is just an evolution in my world of tech and I hope to take it much further as long as the potential is there.

Thanks,
Andre

64-Bit Windows? Wait for Longhorn

Tue, 31 May 2005 17:15:30 GMT

From PCWorld

After more than 18 months of delays, the shipping version of Microsoft's Windows XP Professional X64 Edition operating system is finally here. But even if your PC has a 64-bit CPU, we advise waiting for Longhorn, Microsoft's next-generation Windows due out in 2006, unless you work with data-intensive programs such as video rendering, 3D animation, or CAD and engineering.

XP X64 can process data in 64-bit chunks and address a whopping 128GB of RAM (up from 4GB in today's systems), allowing a dramatic increase in performance by keeping most of the data an app might need in RAM rather than on the slower hard disk.

Read the rest here

My Articles
Windows XP Professional x64, a good or bad start?
Are those 64-bit questions about to be answered...by Microsoft?

Microsoft Treats Testers to XP Pro x64

Fri, 27 May 2005 17:28:06 GMT

From BetaNews

Thanking testers for their hard work debugging Windows XP x64 Edition, Microsoft will be offering beta participants a full retail copy of the 64-bit operating system in downloadable form. Windows Beta Team officials said product keys and download links were being prepared, and would be sent to testers within a few weeks.

Read the rest here

Windows XP Professional x64 Edition Trial Download

Mon, 23 May 2005 19:41:53 GMT

The Windows XP Professional x64 Edition trial software download is available at no charge. After you have completed the download registration process, you will receive an e-mail message with a link to the download page. The download page will include the download file and a product key for the trial software. The file will be in ISO format and must be burned to a CD or DVD before you can install the software on your computer.

The download file is large—over 550 megabytes (MB)—so the download may take considerable time to complete. We recommend downloading the trial software only if you have broadband, ADSL, or other high-speed Internet connections.

Read the rest and download here

Also remember to check the x64 Newsgroups: microsoft.public.windows.64bit.general

Services for Unix and Windows x64

Tue, 10 May 2005 23:59:24 GMT

Is Services for Unix compatible with the Windows x64 platform?

Answer by Charlie Russel.

No, it is not supported, nor will it work. However, the upcoming version of Windows Server 2003 R2 will include many of the features of SFU as part of the core OS. Check my post on the SFU newsgroup for some details.

Exploring Windows XP Professional x64 Edition by Charlie Russel

Tue, 10 May 2005 23:33:28 GMT

Microsoft publicly released Windows XP Professional x64 Edition on April 30, 2005. This version of Windows XP Professional is the first designed specifically to work with x64 PCs. Windows XP Professional x64 Edition, a high-performance platform, brings benefits to customers who work in technical fields such as automobile and airplane design, computational fluid dynamics, and scientific visualization. Digital content creators, including 3-D animators, digital artists, and game developers will also welcome the large amounts of memory and performance improvements that make their 64-bit applications run faster and more efficiently. And enthusiasts who edit a large of amount of photos, video, or music files will benefit from the additional memory and processing capability.

Read the rest here

Windows XP Professional x64 Edition - Setup/Installation FAQs

Tue, 10 May 2005 21:52:48 GMT

Setup/Installation:

Q: What setup and installation considerations should I have when installing Windows x64 Edition?

A: The Windows XP Professional x64 Edition installation process is similar to the installation process for the 32-bit Windows operating system. The x64 installation still copies the needed files to temporary folders, restarts the computer into graphical user interface (GUI) mode, performs Plug and Play (PnP) detection and installation, and then finishes the set up process. However, some GUI mode graphics have been updated to profile new features in x64. To the end user, the installation procedure appears nearly the same as a 32-bit Windows installation. For details, please see knowledge base article 896334.

-Joe Swart [MSFT]

Windows XP Professional x64 Edition - Payment FAQs

Tue, 10 May 2005 21:50:58 GMT

Payment

Q: Who can I contact if I have questions about my order, the shipping of my order, or payment?

A: For order, shipping, and billing details, you may visit the order website. For inquires on any of these items, please email 64bitupgrade@productorder.com. If you’ve made a payment and have questions about the charges, please call the number that appears below the charge description on your credit card statement.

Q: What payment methods can I use to pay for shipping, handling, and any customs duty charges?

A: The payment methods available to pay for shipping, handling, and any custom duty charges are: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover.

Windows XP Professional x64 Edition - Ordering Process FAQs

Tue, 10 May 2005 21:49:20 GMT

Order Process

Q: Where is the COA serial number located?

A: The Certificate of Authenticity can be found on a sticker that is generally located on the back or bottom of a PC. The sticker contains two different sets of numbers – the first is a 25 character product key and the second is the COA serial number. The COA serial number is what is required for this program. It generally appears under a bar code which is located beneath the product key, and begins with “000”.

Q: I don’t have, or can’t find, the COA what else can I do?

A: You can enter the Product ID if a COA is not available. To find the Product ID in Windows XP Professional, click Start, click My Computer, and then click View system information from the left side of the window. In the System Properties dialog box that appears, your Product ID, or “PID,” will be the 20-digit number located under Registered to.

Q: I received an “Invalid COA” message and cannot submit my order, what can I do?

A: First, please ensure that you are entering the correct value into the COA serial number field. The COA serial number is located on a sticker that is generally attached to the back or undercarriage of your computer. The COA serial number is located under the 25 character product key, and begins with “000”.

If you follow the above instructions and still receive an error, please enter the Product ID instead. To find the Product ID in Windows XP Professional, click Start, click My Computer, and then click View system information from the left side of the window. In the System Properties dialog box that appears, your Product ID, or “PID,” will be the 20-digit number located under Registered to.

Q: I entered a COA and Product ID and neither is valid, what else can I do?

A: Verify the software you want to exchange is included in the Technology Advancement Software. If the software you have to exchange is included then verify the software was acquired between March 31, 2003 and June 30, 2005.

Q: Can I order my Technology Advancement Software from this site if the Product ID contains the letters “OEM”?

A: Yes you may, however, Microsoft recommends that you visit your PC manufacturer’s web site to determine if they are supporting the program first. If your OEM supports the program, they will have a “custom” version of the exchange program which will provide you with the appropriate drivers and software for your computer.

Q: After entering my COA, I received a “DupeCOA” message. What should I do?

A: Please send an email to 64bitupgrade@productorder.com and specify the error message received and the COA that you entered.

Q: Do I need to specify the 25 digit product key in the order process?

A: No, the 25 digit product key is not used in the Technology Advancement Program.

Q: How do I check on my order status?

A: You will receive an order confirmation email once soon after your order is placed and soon after your order is shipped. If you have any order, shipping, or billing-related questions please email ms64bitupgrade@productorder.com.

Q: When will I receive my Technology Advancement Software after ordering?

A: Due to large demand, it will take about 4-6 weeks after ordering to receive your shipment.

Windows XP Professional x64 Edition - Licensing FAQs

Tue, 10 May 2005 21:46:41 GMT

Licensing

Q: If I have a Volume License or a subscription to MSDN, should I use this program?

A. Customers with active Volume License Agreements and MSDN subscriptions already have access to Windows XP Professional x64 Edition under their existing plan.

Q: If I have Windows XP Home Edition, Windows XP Tablet PC Edition or Windows XP Media Center Edition, am I eligible for this program?

A: No, the Windows x64 Editions Technology Advancement Program only allows exchanges from one like product to another. Customers with versions of the product other than Windows XP Professional can either upgrade to Windows XP Professional and then make the exchange or purchase the Windows XP Professional x64 Edition CD from a System Builder, Distributor, or pre-installed on a new PC.

Q: If I submit an order for a Windows XP Professional x64 Edition can I return my 32-bit XP Professional Edition?

A: You will not be able to return your 32-bit license of Windows XP Professional. If you are uncertain on making the exchange, we recommend you try the software first by using the Windows XP Professional x64 Edition Trial Software Program. Please see http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/64bit/evaluation/trial.mspx for details.

Windows XP Professional x64 Official FAQs #1

Tue, 10 May 2005 21:44:48 GMT

General:

Q: What is the Windows x64 Editions Technology Advancement Program?

A) The Technology Advancement Program allows customers who purchased a 32-bit version of Windows with x64 hardware to exchange it for the corresponding x64 version. The Technology Advancement Program will be available from April 25 to July 30, while Volume Licensing customers are free to exchange their 32-bit version of Windows for the x64 version at any time, using their current volume license agreements.

Q. What are the qualified purchase dates for participating in the Technology Advancement Program? When does it end?

A. Customers must have purchased or built their x64-based PCs between March 31, 2003 and June 30, 2005. The program ends on July 31, 2005.

Q. In order to receive the x64 upgrade through the Technology Advancement Program, do customers have to work through systems builders or OEMs? Do customers have to purchase new hardware?

A. Participating OEMs will have their own fulfillment sites for this program and customers should check their web sites to determine if the exchange is supported. Customers who purchased 32-bit Windows and x64 hardware from a system builder or built their own PC should visit Microsoft.com/x64 and follow links to the Technology Advancement Program. Volume Licensing customers are permitted to use their media kits to exchange 32-bit Windows for the x64 version.

Q: What do participants in the Windows x64 Editions Technology Advancement Program receive? Will a download be available?

A: Customers participating in the Technology Advancement program will receive a CD with a full installation of the software ordered. Since the software ordered is a full installation of the operating system, the software will not be posted for download.

Q: What will my order contain?

A: When your order arrives, you will receive a DVD case and CD with a liner that identifies the software as part of the Technology Advancement Program (e.g., “Microsoft XP Professional x64 Edition).

Q: What languages are available?

A: Windows XP Professional x64 Edition is available in English and Japanese, with Multilingual Interface Packs (MUIs) available in the languages listed below. As the product MUI Packs release during Q2 2005, they will be posted the Technology Advancement Program website for download. The following languages will have MUI Packs available for download:

German
French
Spanish
Italian
Korean
Chinese Simplified
Chinese Traditional
Japanese
Swedish

Q: What is a Multilingual User Interface?

A: A Multilingual User Interface (MUI) runs on top of the English version of Windows and provides a translated user interface for the customer. With the exception of a few minor differences, localized versions of Windows are the same as the MUI version on English Windows XP from a feature and architectural point of view,

Q: Where will the MUI packs be located for download?

A: MUI packs will be available in early May by download from the client and server pages.

Client: http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/64bit/default.mspx

Server: http://www.microsoft.com/windowsserver2003/64bit/x64/default.mspx

Q: What should I consider before moving to 64-bit?

Before you make the decision to move to 64-bit, we recommend taking the following steps:

Read the information on this Web site about Windows XP Professional x64 Edition. Unless you are pushing the boundaries of the 32-bit architecture, you will probably find that a 32-bit operating system is still the best option.

Investigate whether or not 64-bit device drivers are available for the components in your PC and the peripherals that you use (scanners, cameras, and so on). Since your 32-bit drivers will not work on this version of Windows, it is important that you make sure your devices are supported. You can find many of these supported devices on Windows Marketplace or by checking directly with your hardware manufacturer.

Back up your data and settings. Windows XP Professional x64 Edition requires a "clean installation," meaning the contents of your hard drive will be erased during the installation.

Try the Windows XP Professional x64 Edition Trial Software. The Trial Software program allows you to evaluate the operating system for 180 days. This is a great way to determine whether or not it is compatible with your current system and devices.

Q: Where do I go to find out if my printer and other devices will work in Windows x64?

A: Contact the hardware or software vendor to determine if printers and other devices have 64-bit drivers.

Q: I’ve contacted my OEM and they have no knowledge of the program, what can I do?

A: First, you should check your OEM’s Web site to see if they support the program for your particular PC. If your OEM supports the program, they will have a “custom” version of the exchange program which will provide you with the appropriate drivers and software for your computer.

Q: I’ve contacted my System Builder and they have no knowledge of the program, what can I do?

A: Microsoft is contracting with an Authorized Replicator to hosting the exchange site on behalf of System Builders, so the System Builder may, or may not, be aware of the Technology Advancement Program.

Q: How do I submit multiple COA serial numbers or Product IDs as items in my order?

A: Unfortunately, multiple items currently need to be submitted as separate orders.

HP Introduces Windows X64 Desktops

Thu, 28 Apr 2005 23:41:31 GMT

Hewlett-Packard on Monday introduced business desktops and workstations with security features designed to take advantage of the security enhancements planned for Microsoft's upcoming Longhorn operating system. HP is also introducing business desktops and workstations offering the new Microsoft Windows x64 Edition operating systems.

Read the rest here

Driver Resources for Windows x64

Tue, 26 Apr 2005 16:00:05 GMT

Here's a list of places that have information, drivers and software for X64 (taken from the CPP newsgroup):

http://www.short-media.com/download.php

http://forums.pcper.com

http://www.planetamd64.com

http://www.extendded64.com

http://www.64bit-world.com

http://www.driverheaven.net

http://www.pcper.com

http://www.cole2k.net

http://www.tomshardware.com

http://aoaforums.com

Some sites such as PlanetAMD64 will require registration to get to the downloads but it's only name and email address.

David Norton

Microsoft® Windows® x64 Edition Technology Advancement

Tue, 26 Apr 2005 14:57:44 GMT

Upgrade from XP pro 32bit to 64bit for free! shiiping costs NOT included.

The Technology Advancement Program is designed to assist customers who have acquired a new x64 Computer with the intention of replacing a previously licensed 32-bit version of Microsoft® Windows® XP Professional (1-2 Processor Version) Microsoft® Windows® XP Professional (1-4 Processor Version and Microsoft® Windows® XP Professional Reduced Media Edition (1-2 Processor Version) (“Windows XP Pro (32 Bit)”) with Windows XP Professional x64 Edition on such system. This program allows customers to exchange a license for Windows XP Pro (32 Bit)for the new version of Windows XP Professional x64 Edition.

Technology Advancement Program Eligibility

In order to be eligible to receive Windows® XP Professional x64 Edition, your computer must have been ordered between March 31, 2003 and July 31, 2005 with Microsoft Windows® XP Pro (32 Bit) preinstalled.

In addition, you must read and agree to the following:

By participating in this program, your 32-bit version of Windows® XP Professional will no longer be licensed. The installation of Windows® XP Professional x64 Edition requires you to format your hard drive. You must back up your files and settings prior to the installation or they will be erased. Microsoft is not liable for any loss of data as a result of this installation. Windows® XP Professional x64 Edition requires 64-bit hardware drivers (32-bit drivers are not supported). Drivers for 64-bit Windows are created at the discretion of hardware manufacturers and may not be available for some of your hardware components.

For the purposes of the End User License Agreement for your existing Windows® XP Pro (32 Bit) software, your installation of this software will be an “Upgrade.”

The installation of Windows® XP Professional x64 Editions will void any support with your PC manufacturer. One free support call will be provided by Microsoft for any installation-related issues. Additional calls to Microsoft support will be available on a pay-per-incident basis.

Cost for shipping and handling of upgrade is $12.00 USD for domestic shipments and $22.00 USD for International shipments plus any applicable taxes.

Take advantage of it here

64-Bit Driver Support Is Still a Mixed Bag

Sat, 23 Apr 2005 02:53:48 GMT

Will hardware vendors have 64-bit device drivers in place to support Microsoft's 64-bit Windows release? The answer is a definite maybe.

While a significant number of PC components will function under Microsoft's new 64-bit Windows operating system, more specialized devices are being put on the back burner.

According to Greg Sullivan, lead product manager for Microsoft's Windows team, 16,000 devices will support the Windows XP Professional x64 Edition, scheduled to be released Monday. A number of PC component manufacturers began publishing their drivers earlier this month.

Peripheral manufacturers appear to have emphasized their more mainstream products first; some mice and trackballs, for example, will support the new 64-bit OS out of the box.

Read the rest here

Windows XP Professional x64 on the shelves in Japan.

Fri, 22 Apr 2005 23:38:10 GMT

Well, if you want Windows XP Professional x64 Edition badly, you can always take a trip to Japan and purchase it there, although flying to Japan wouldn't justify the cost:

http://www.tomshardware.com/hardnews/20050422_104458.html

Front

Inside (Beautiful hologram disk as always).

Q&A Part 2: Microsoft's Allchin dispels myths on 64-bit computing

Mon, 18 Apr 2005 20:07:11 GMT

APRIL 18, 2005 (COMPUTERWORLD) - BOSTON -- Jim Allchin, group vice president of platforms at Microsoft Corp., wants to dispel the notion that 64-bit computing is helpful only for big database servers and computer-assisted design (CAD) applications. Allchin last week extolled the benefits of 64-bit computing during an interview with Computerworld. Microsoft is expected to release 64-bit editions of Windows XP and Windows Server 2003 this month.

Read the rest here

Windows XP Professional x64 Edition RTM: First Impressions

Thu, 07 Apr 2005 17:41:18 GMT

First, lets explore the origins of Windows XP Professional x64 Edition. It is based on the solid foundation of Windows Server 2003 (SP1), which in turn, is based on Windows XP. Windows XP is Windows NT Version 5.1, Windows Server 2003 is Windows NT 5.2, and Windows XP Professional x64 Edition is also Windows NT 5.2. What does this mean? You'll have all the great features of Windows XP running on the even more reliable and performance-tuned Windows Server 2003 base.

The target for my installation was my eMachines M6809 laptop. It has an AMD Mobile Althon 64 3200+ Processor, 768mb of RAM, ATI Mobility Radeon 9600, 15.4" Widescreen LCD, 80gb Hard Disk, DVD+/-RW Drive, Broadcom 802.11g WiFi, an integrated modem and integrated 10/100 ethernet.

Installing XP Professional x64 Edition went very smoothly, and is exactly how you would install 32-bit Windows XP when booting off the CD. Note, you can't install any Windows x64 operating system from within 32-bit Windows (although it will run through 64-bit Windows).

All of my hardware was auto-detected, and Windows installed the correct drivers. Besides my laptop's integrated ATI Mobility graphics, the ONE piece of hardware that did not have an included driver on the Windows CD for was my laptop's internal 56k modem. While this may present a problem for some people, I'm fully in the broadband era and my 802.11G Wifi + 10/100 NIC will be just fine!

After installing the ATI Graphics driver, I went into Add/Remove Programs and added Internet Information Services (IIS) to my installed Windows Apps. I use this to develop and test ASP.NET applications locally. IIS installed fine, and for those of you wondering, since Windows XP Professional x64 Edition is based on Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 1, it includes IIS6.

Read the rest here

Windows 64 bit much faster on networks

Tue, 05 Apr 2005 17:00:06 GMT

WE HAD A CHANCE to play with the last public beta of upcoming Windows XP 64 bit operating system and were thrilled to learn that this version actually works much faster with the "network neighbourhood" feature.

Imagine our surprise to learn that you can almost instantly find computers in your lab network and almost instantly be able to list them and access any of them.

With the standard Windows XP Pro it takes at least a few seconds just to list the computers, and we are talking about computer in local network connected through same router or switch.

Drivers for other devices are ready and you won't miss much when you go to Windows XP 64 bit edition, but beware that you have to use 64 bit drivers only. This will come for free as you will be able to exchange your 32 bit copy for 64 without charge. µ

_______________

My Answer to this - DUH!

64-Bit Computing On The Launchpad

Tue, 05 Apr 2005 16:19:57 GMT

The long-awaited era of 64-bit computing finally may be here. Intel last week introduced a line of 64-bit Xeon processors for the multiprocessor-server market that sets a new level of computing performance and is expected to launch a wave of software development to take advantage of the greater speed the processors provide.

The Xeon MP processors complete Intel's conversion of its server-processor portfolio to 64-bit capabilities, with the Itanium processor at the high end. Advanced Micro Devices Inc.'s 64-bit Opteron processors have been available for two years. Intel's Xeon MP and AMD's Opteron provide the foundation for a transition from the x86 standard to a new 64-bit computing market. Intel and the major computer makers are even changing their nomenclature, using "x64" to describe 64-bit chips that run the x86 instruction set. Intel's Itanium chip handles 64 bits at a time but doesn't run x86 instructions natively.

Perhaps even more important than the chip announcement was confirmation from Microsoft last week that its long-awaited Windows Server 2003 64-bit Edition is near completion and that a formal introduction can be expected as soon as next month.

"That's the gun that starts the race," says Nathan Brookwood, an analyst with Insight64. Once there's a 64-bit version of Windows Server, "then we'll also start to see all of the utilities and infrastructure applications being moved over to 64 bits."

That's a change eagerly anticipated by Wayne Myers, IT director and network administrator for law firm Hooper, Lundy & Bookman Inc. "Now that Microsoft is on board, we're just waiting for the other software applications to come around," he says. "As all the legal software is ported to 64-bit operation, it will speed up pretty much everything we do across the network." The California firm, which specializes in health-care law, runs Windows on ProLiant servers from Hewlett-Packard for a variety of applications and Microsoft's SQL Server.

Myers expects significant performance gains when he tests new HP server systems using the Xeon MP processors running 64-bit-capable software over the next three to six months. "It's like having an eight-cylinder car, then putting a 16-cylinder engine in it," he says. "Just think of the power difference. Our data will process at a faster rate because basically we'll have more 'doors' to get the information through to the processor."

Proponents of 64-bit computing have been anxiously awaiting Microsoft's release of a 64-bit server operating system since AMD introduced its Opteron processor in April 2003 and Intel unveiled plans to extend its Xeon line to include 64-bit operations. Business-technology managers have been able to run 64-bit versions of the Solaris and Linux operating systems on 64-bit chips. But Windows remains dominant, and independent software developers who write Windows apps have been waiting for the Microsoft move before converting their software. Details of the release of Windows Server 2003 64-bit edition will be disclosed at the Windows Hardware Engineering Conference, scheduled for April 25-27 in Seattle, Andy Lees, corporate VP for Microsoft's server and tools business, said last week.

Read the rest here

It is really coming together, finally!