Migrating from Windows server 2003 32-bit to Windows Server 2008 64-bit
Active Directory, SQL 2005, Windows Server 2003, Windows Server 2003 32-bit, Windows Server 2008, Windows Server 2008 64-bit, Windows Server Migrations and Upgrades, Windows Server Upgrades
We are migrating from Windows server 2003 32bit to 2008 64 bit. What should we be aware of before progressing? What pitfalls or incompatibilities should we be prepared for? The server is an Active Directory box running SQL 2005.
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ASKED:
November 1, 2010 2:22 PM
UPDATED:
November 3, 2010 3:10 PM
Answer Wiki:
The main thing is making sure you have installs for all your applications in 64-bit. Most installers are only for 32-bit and will not work on a 64-bit machine. Just making sure you can install all the programs you need is the first step. The second would be checking the vendors website or contacting their support to make sure all these applications function normally in a 64-bit environment. Also you are going to need to make sure you have drivers for all the hardware attached in 64-bit as well. Along with all these checks you also should check if everything works on server 08 as well from 03 to make sure their is no compatibility issues there either. But seems like the main thing is checking SQL 2005 Compatibility with 64-bit OS and Server 2008 they may need to send you a 64-bit installer but otherwise it should work the same.
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First thing to to ensure the programs you are currently using are compatible with a 64-bit OS, there are some that are not. DOS programs will not run under a 64-bit OS. Check that your printer drivers have a 64-bit version available, a 32-bit driver will not work in a 64-bit environment.
If you are running 32-bit programs, no problem, contrary to FrnaktheTank’s answer. Many 32-bit programs are compatible with a 64-bit OS. When you look at the directory tree, you will see two directories labeled Program Files, but one will also have the (x86) designator on it. This is where your 32-bit programs will live. hPart of the registry is also for 32-bit programs.
Just do not take it for granted that everything will run under 64-bit. It will not. Especially do not play with mission critical programs. Be very sure they will work, or will work with an upgrade to the latest and greatest version.