If you are replacing an existing drive with an SSD drive, the new drive may come with its own cloning software. [1] X Research source You can use this software to clone your current hard drive’s contents (including the operating system) to the new drive. If software is not included in the package, check the drive manufacturer’s website to see if they offer cloning software for download. Other popular reliable cloning options are Symantec Ghost, Clonezilla (one of the few free options), Acronis, and Macrium. See How to Back Up a Windows Computer to learn how to back up your data to another drive. If you’ve purchased any software with license keys, make sure you back them up and/or have copies of the keys so you can reinstall them easily.
If you’re using Windows 10, see How to Create a Recovery Drive on Windows to learn how to create your own Windows 10 installation media on a blank USB drive.
Both SSD and HDD generally connect to the motherboard with SATA connectors. Older HDD drives may use IDE, but that’s increasingly rare. SATA usually comes in 3 different versions (SATA, SATA II and SATA III), so you’ll need to find out what your motherboard supports. Make sure you get a drive that’s large enough to handle all of your data.
If you’re not familiar with proper grounding techniques, see How to Ground Yourself to Avoid Destroying a Computer with Electrostatic Discharge.
Some laptops have special doors on the case that allow you to easily insert and remove hard drives. Other models require you to remove the battery and unscrew various components to access the hard drive. Check with your manufacturer to find the correct method for your computer. Some desktop cases do not use screws. If your case is a screw-less case, you will need to find the latch or button that releases the doors or panels. Remove the doors or panels as necessary
Place the old drive somewhere safe in case you need it in the future.
If the PC won’t boot from the recovery media, you’ll have to make some changes in the BIOS. The key to enter the BIOS varies, but you’ll usually need to restart the PC and immediately press either F12, F10, or Del to enter the boot menu. The actual key should appear below the manufacturer’s logo. If you don’t tap it fast enough you’ll have to reboot and start again. Once you’re in the BIOS, find the section called Boot Menu or Boot Order, then set the first boot device as USB Drive or DVD drive as needed. Exit and save your changes, then reboot the PC.
