I often end up setting up the 32-bit edition of Windows 10 by mistake.
I often end up setting up the 32-bit edition of Windows 10 by mistake.
Your system has been repeatedly installing 32-bit versions. Did you originally have an 8.1 version that was 32-bit or 64-bit? Try reinstalling the 64-bit version of 8.1 and check if it works with Windows 10. If you still face issues, run setup from the media creation tool after a clean install. It seems your hardware might be tied to a 32-bit OS on Microsoft servers during activation.
It was originally a 64-bit version of 8.1 on another hard drive. I’m not sure I can reinstall it, since I received it for free during their student promotion in 2012. I don’t have the .edu email that supposedly holds the key. Upgrading to a 64-bit version and installing it seems like a reasonable plan...
Your 8.1 product key is already installed on the system. No need for an additional .edu email. It was extracted using a utility and then deployed to the SSD. Upgrading to Windows 10 is possible, but the OEM license remains linked to the original PC. Replacing the HDD isn't worth paying $200 for a new operating system.
For those facing similar issues: I could possibly have the answer. http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windo...df465df326 WARNING: Avoid using the Windows 10 ISO to format your PC. Upgrade first from an activated Windows 7, Windows 8, or Windows 8.1, make sure the Windows 10 install is enabled before proceeding with a clean setup. It seems the best path was going to 7 or 8.1 and then upgrading. Thanks NumLock. I'll follow up later. Final note: It worked! Thanks again, Numlock, this issue resolved.
No, I didn't find that issue. It seems to be related to the UEFI setup.