Windows 8.1 reinstall

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fnatic

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Jun 25, 2013
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I have windows 8.1 on my HDD right now. I just ordered a new SSD and i'd like to put my windows 8.1 on the SSD. I have a few questions I hope you gurus can answer.

1) Should I just clone my drive using the migration software or do a clean install.
2) When I put the windows 8.1 disk in will I need another product key or what?


Also any tips or tricks would be awesome, thanks in advance!
 
Solution
dodger46


As you have a 8.1 installation disk, safest way would be to clean install. Disconnect your old drive to avoid boot problems during installation, install to Unallocated Space (don't create any partitions). Simply enter your Product key when prompted. Windows should activate automatically as you haven't made any major Hardware changes.
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dodger46

dodger46

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Nov 19, 2011
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As you have a 8.1 installation disk, safest way would be to clean install. Disconnect your old drive to avoid boot problems during installation, install to Unallocated Space (don't create any partitions). Simply enter your Product key when prompted. Windows should activate automatically as you haven't made any major Hardware changes.
Read this 1st to get the best from your SSD
http://thessdreview.com/ssd-guides/optimization-guides/the-ssd-optimization-guide-ultimate-windows-8-edition/
 
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dbesh2

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Feb 23, 2014
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I have a related question, or all of this just blew over my head. I have a new PC with Windows 8.1 and a new SSD. I also have the key for OS on my hard drive. I could use the key and get a fresh download from MS and copy it my SSD, correct? If I do it that way, how do I get the rest of the software from my OEM hard drive on the SSD so it will boot and be usable on my PC?
 
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dodger46

dodger46

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Nov 19, 2011
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Assume we're talking about a Laptop?
If I understand correctly, the OS on your machine came pre-installed, and is known as a 'White Box' OEM version, you can't d'load that from M'soft using that key. There are options.
1. Use Recovery to create a Recovery disk. Type 'Recovery' at your Start Screen and choose 'Create a Recovery Drive'. As you have a Recovery Partition you should be offered the chance to create a repair drive and copy the Recovery Partition. You'll need an 8 Gb USB drive.
2. Use 3rd party software to Clone your Drive and copy it to your SSD.
3. Try this if you simply want to 'Clean Install' Windows.
http://superuser.com/questions/697253/clean-install-windows-8-1-or-windows-8-from-oem-key


 
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dbesh2

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Feb 23, 2014
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Yes, an Asus 550. Thanks for the instructions. I did a Recovery Backup to a thumb drive. The SSD in on it's way to being a clone. I should know in about an hour if it will boot up, etc.
 
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dodger46

dodger46

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Nov 19, 2011
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Perhaps let us know how you get on, I've never had a White Box OEM to play with, and would be interested in the results from an 8.1 Recovery, though it sounds like you went for a clone!

 
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dbesh2

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Feb 23, 2014
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Everything is as it was, but much faster! I did all the necessary tweaks required for an SSD. I found a couple of tiles out of place, but otherwise everything seems to be performing normally. I did go for the clone. I used Farstone Recovery 10 upon a friend's recommendation. The entire operation was quite transparent.
 
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dodger46

dodger46

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Nov 19, 2011
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Did you purchase or was free trial sufficient?

 
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dbesh2

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Feb 23, 2014
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The Free Trial was sufficient to get the job done.


 
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