Clean install of current windows 8.1 key to new SSD

Toggle sidebar Toggle sidebar
T

tomcork

Reputable
Jan 13, 2015
69
0
4,630
I have windows 8.1 installed on a 250gb hard drive and have just ordered a 256gb ssd.

Can i do a fresh install of windows 8.1 on my new SSD and then remove it from my HDD once it is successful.

Is there any performance differences on doing a fresh install over a clone? (I have had 8.1 installed for around 3 or 4 months and have some old graphics drivers i cant remove) I would like to keep all of my programs as I have lost some of the disks for them though.
 
Solution
SuperSoph_WD
Hey there, tomcork!

Yes, there is a difference - performing a fresh install is much better than cloning.
You will be able to clean install your current OS using the same product key, because the operating system is communicating with the motherboard and not the storage device.
Just make sure you unplug the HDD and leave only the SSD plugged in the SATA ports.
Otherwise, you might encounter Windows installation confusion.

It is also recommended to backup the data from the HDD, then re-format and re-install your software apps.
This is the best way to proceed when installing new SSD. :)
Here are some links you should check out as well...
Sort by date Sort by votes
SuperSoph_WD

SuperSoph_WD

Glorious
Jul 30, 2014
6,758
3
45,960
Hey there, tomcork!

Yes, there is a difference - performing a fresh install is much better than cloning.
You will be able to clean install your current OS using the same product key, because the operating system is communicating with the motherboard and not the storage device.
Just make sure you unplug the HDD and leave only the SSD plugged in the SATA ports.
Otherwise, you might encounter Windows installation confusion.

It is also recommended to backup the data from the HDD, then re-format and re-install your software apps.
This is the best way to proceed when installing new SSD. :)
Here are some links you should check out as well:
http://www.overclock.net/t/664738/how-to-setup-ssd-boot-drive-with-secondary-hard-disc-optimization
http://www.tomsguide.com/answers/id-1957725/proper-clean-install-win8-ssd.html

Hope this helped!
SuperSoph_WD
 
Upvote 0 Downvote
Solution
T

tomcork

Reputable
Jan 13, 2015
69
0
4,630


I will keep the data on the hard drive till install is successful. I am trying to move as much as possible to my secondary hard drive (D: ), such as installers for programs. So that then I can still use the same programs I am currently using. What would you recommend i do about the programs that i cannot find the installer for?
 
Upvote 0 Downvote
SuperSoph_WD

SuperSoph_WD

Glorious
Jul 30, 2014
6,758
3
45,960


There are some software apps that simply work by copying the files directory to the other location without reinstalling, while others will need to be re-installed.
However, I believe there are third-party utilities that can transfer a software from one drive to another but you'd have to Google that. I can also suggest you to take a look at this Tom's Hardware Guide:
http://www.tomshardware.co.uk/forum/294557-32-guide-move-software-games-drive-reinstalling

Good luck! :)
SuperSoph_WD
 
Upvote 0 Downvote
T

tomcork

Reputable
Jan 13, 2015
69
0
4,630


Thanks, that's all the information i need
 
Upvote 1 Downvote
You must log in or register to reply here.

TRENDING THREADS

Latest posts

Moderators online

Share this page

COMPANY
RESOURCES
FOLLOW
Top Bottom