"Windows System Preparation Tool" - Worth using?

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rwhipple08

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I have Windows 8.1 installed on an SSD and keep most files on a separate HDD. I keep backups on an external HDD, so I have a total of 3 drives to work with.

I want to move the SSD/HDD into a new system. I was planning to put in the SSD, reformat it, do a fresh install of W8.1, then put in the HDD. However, while doing some research I came across the Windows System Preparation Tool.

Apparently I can run this program to "detach" Windows 8.1 from the hardware and set it to "re-install" itself when placed in a new machine. This sounds like it would be much more convenient than the setup I have now, especially since my applications are all installed on the HDD and I am certain that a fresh install of the OS on the SSD would require uninstalling and reinstalling all the applications. Is this tool reliable and user-friendly or does it overpromise and underdeliver in practice?
 
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USAFRet

USAFRet

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Sysprep is for a basic, generalized Windows install. NOT for something that already has applications installed.

"Don't use the Windows Store to update your Windows Store apps before running sysprep /generalize. Sysprep fails to generalize the image in this scenario."
https://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/hh824938.aspx

That speaks to Windows Store applications, but all other applications fall under that.
 
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rwhipple08

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Ok, good info. Some of the other sites I saw discussing it were talking it up as a way to pack up a current install and move it over to a new machine. It appears they oversold it, like I suspected.

I think my plan is going to be to ensure all documents and media are on the HDD and everything is backed up to my external, and then make a USB flash installation media that I use to boot up and re-install Windows on the SSD in the new system. I've never done that before...any tips to share?
 
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USAFRet

USAFRet

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You have it covered pretty well.
Just be sure to install with only the SSD connected.
 
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WinOutreach2

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If you are using the USB media creation process documented in that link, the media will work fine for what you are intending. If you are looking to create installation media from an existing ISO or physical disk, I would highly recommend using DiskPart to set the USB drive to active and copying the ISO or disk contents into the USB media rather than using additional utilities to product the USB media. The utilities, like the Windows DVD/USB Download Tool can cause compatibility issues with the native USB 3.0 support that is provided by the boot media.
 
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