What all do I need to have in mind while swapping motherboards?

Caleb_45

Prominent
May 24, 2017
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510
I need to upgrade motherboards and wanted to gather as much information as I could before I went about the procedure. I have done the compatibility checks and everything involved in picking the right one, so I just need advice on the procedure itself. Most notably, software. I've read that I'll need to reinstall Windows 10. I've never done that before. Should I uninstall it before taking the old MOBO out or do I need to worry about that? And what should I do with my data? Should I just create a backup file or do I need to move EVERYTHING to an external storage device if I want to keep it? Or can everything stay on my hard drives as they are (with a backup made, as always)? Will I need to reinstall programs? Also, what should I know about managing the BIOS once I put the new card in, and what about the hardware and installation should I keep in mind that may be important to watch out for?

Any and all information would be greatly appreciated. I've done some reading, but I thought I'd ask some of you experts to be sure I haven't missed anything. Thank you! :)
 
Solution
"Should I uninstall it before taking the old MOBO out or do I need to worry about that?"
Nope, after you install the motherboard you need to boot from the Windows 10 disk to start the installation.

"And what should I do with my data?"
Just backup anything you want to save, music, movies, pictures etc.

"Will I need to reinstall programs?"
That depends on the type of installation you choose. Sometimes you can just to a repair/re-installation which will allow your programs to keep working and stay installed. The better option (if you ask me) is to erase the whole drive and do a fresh install of windows. Then re-install your programs.

"Also, what should I know about managing the BIOS once I put the new card in"
The BIOS will auto...
"Should I uninstall it before taking the old MOBO out or do I need to worry about that?"
Nope, after you install the motherboard you need to boot from the Windows 10 disk to start the installation.

"And what should I do with my data?"
Just backup anything you want to save, music, movies, pictures etc.

"Will I need to reinstall programs?"
That depends on the type of installation you choose. Sometimes you can just to a repair/re-installation which will allow your programs to keep working and stay installed. The better option (if you ask me) is to erase the whole drive and do a fresh install of windows. Then re-install your programs.

"Also, what should I know about managing the BIOS once I put the new card in"
The BIOS will auto configure most settings for you. However I would open it up and make sure the RAM is running at the correct speed.

"hardware and installation should I keep in mind that may be important to watch out for?"
When your done and windows is re-installed run a temp monitoring software to ensure the CPU heat sync and thermal paste are keeping the CPU cool enough. Some BIOS's will show CPU temps.. Some will not.
 
Solution

Caleb_45

Prominent
May 24, 2017
12
0
510


Thank you! After looking around some more, though, I found that some people are having problems with Windows 10 keys. Will I need to buy a new key?
 
No, windows 10 usually knows it was installed based on you motherboard. Since you'll be upgrading your motherboard it may have difficulty activating automatically (can take like 3 days). If you DO have issues, call Microsoft and tell them you just installed a replacement motherboard and they will allow the activation.