CPU/MB Upgrade and Switch from Windows 7 to 8.1 Questions

pleggins

Honorable
Mar 23, 2013
23
0
10,510
Hello. I currently have an AMD FX 6300 paired with a gigabyte motherboard running Windows 7, and I am about to switch to an i7 4790k with the MSI Z97 gaming 5 motherboard and moving to Windows 8.1. I know I am going to have to do a clean install of Windows so I am currently in the backing-up process. I was wondering if anyone could give me some advice on the following questions.

Before I install the new hardware, should I create a new partition on my ssd to install Windows 8.1 to? Also, will I be able to access the files from my ssd and hdd from partitions that have Windows 7 installed on them? Sorry if that doesn't make sense or is a really simple question. I guess I'm just asking if I will be able to access my old partitions from inside Windows 8.1?

Also, will a retail copy of windows 8.1 bought today allow me to upgrade to Windows 10 for free? I havent done much research on what it takes to qualify for the free upgrade.

Thank you in advance. More info/ system specs can be provided if needed.
 
Solution
Yup just connect the windows 7 hdd after you install 8.1...it should appear once 8.1 has been installed

You cant back up programs you'll have to reinstall them after you install 8.1

Ivan96

Reputable
Feb 18, 2015
460
3
4,865
Yes,you can access old partion from inside windows 8.1 if its installed on one hdd or ssd and you have connected that other hdd which has those files, and i think you will get free upgrade to windows 10 but maybe its a better idea to wait those couple of weeks and upgrade directly to windows 10