Replacing HDD with SSD, and using HDD as storage

Hatamaz · Jun 26, 2013

I'm kind of needing a step by step guide on how to replace my HDD in my laptop to an SSD, and then using that HDD as a storage drive. I'm wanting to just do a fresh install of Windows 8 onto the SSD. I've tried googling for answers, but haven't found a guide myself that let's me feel completely comfortable doing this.

USAFRet · Jun 26, 2013

Start here:
Sean's Windows 8 Install & Optimization Guide for SSDs & HDDs

Ask other questions here if you are unsure. Many, many of us have done this multiple times.

My bottom line recommendation - fresh install on the SSD vs clone/migration from HDD to SDD.

Tom Tancredi · Jun 26, 2013

I think you mean how to do it SPECIFICALLY for your computer, but the problems are is A) your not saying what computer it is B) laptop or desktop C) haven't tried to look up your computer yet with the keyword SSD. Alot of times that leads you to a forum discussion and you can get some heads up warning on what others have done... I would suggest that first, and then second look up under the maker of your computer that model's SERVICE Manual. That is how to take apart your computer step by step just like at the factory. That would be the very first steps to understanding 'step by step' how to remove the HDD and install TWO drives (HDD and SDD) into the computer.

Hatamaz · Jun 27, 2013

Tom Tancredi :

Yes sorry for being so vague. It's a laptop, and I actually feel that I'll be fine doing the actual replacing of the hardware. My fear is more of what do I do with my HDD after I have it installed. In general, what do I put on my SSD other than Windows 8? I know my most played games I would like to put there, but what else? Like anti-virus protection? Also, do I keep the windows 8 on my hdd or should I get rid of it so there is hopefully no problems?

I really like the guide that USAFRet linked me to. I feel like that is a really good starting point for me, and I'll follow his other recommendation of coming back here if I run into more specific questions. I really do appreciate the help and tips.

Tom Tancredi · Jun 27, 2013

Hatamaz :

Tom Tancredi :

Well you must consider a few things

1) the normal SSD costs ALOT per GB as compared to a HDD. You could buy a couple of TBs of HDDs for the cost of one 256GB SSD. So your limited on space.
2) SSDs have a faster 'use' rate then a HDD do, so if you put alot of programs constantly making changes to the drive (like every few miliseconds) then you will use up the SSD in no time flat. So your best choice is to put the OS on C (the SSD), Core large programs (like Adobe DreamWeaver, etc.) then put everything else including your My Music, My Documents, etc. etc. (like games) on D (HDD). That means ALOT of constant maintanence to tell programs to be installed on D, move log files, settings, whatever in the applications settings individually to D as well.
3) You can install only *1* copy of Windows, first reason is the licensing will not allow you to have 'muliple copies' when you try installing it multiple times (generalization). Additionally the Boot Record (where the Drives get told you load this drive, this OS, etc.) gets altered when you install Windows repeatedly. Most importantly it would prevent the 'other copy' from working or ever booting. You would best be served to have a backup external drive and use a good bundled backup software to make regular images of your OS.

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Replacing HDD with SSD, and using HDD as storage

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