Can you downgrade from 64bit Ubuntu (hardy) to the 32bit version?

I always thought there were as many 64bit packages as 32bit except for those applications that only provide 32bit versions (Flash is an example, but you can get around that one using nspluginwrapper).

Anyway, the idea is not new but the comments on that page seem to conclude it’s not possible. Then again, they’re not so sure at another idea.

There may actually be as many 64bit packages but I keep running across things like,
——
32bit: download here
64bit: not available
——

I could just be looking at sites that only have the 32bit version posted. And since I cannot use this computer online, I can’t just let Ubuntu do its thing and check for me.

I wonder if I could install the 32bit version on a separate drive and add it to the dual boot list along with the existing 64bit and XP.

Sure, you could do that :). In fact, IIRC that’s suggested at one of the links above.

I’ve found that you can install 32bit goodies on a 64 bit system. My journey of discovery happened when trying to get tweetdeck to work right in 64bit Ubuntu….

getlibs is a program you can install to get 32bit drivers for installing 32bit software on a 64bit machine.

native 64 bit flash works better than 32 bit flash. Adding “native” to my google searches helped me out with installing google gears, flash, and Java.

Finally, dpkg -i—force-all program.deb will FORCE the install of 32 bit software. combined with getlibs, you can make your programs work. Use with caution!! (RTFM)

After saying all that. I will say I haven’t gotten imeem.com to work with 64 bit firefox/Flash. However, everything else works great. (fingers crossed for Fire Fox 3.5)

hope this helps

benefits of 64bit