This article will show you how to replace your current primary hard drive on a Windows 10 PC. You will also learn how to choose the right hard drive for your system and how to keep your computer safe during the replacement.
Steps
Step 1. Back up your data to your current hard drive
If the drive you want to replace is operational and you want to preserve some of the data on it, back it up before ejecting it. If you don't have an external USB drive to copy your data, check out this article to learn how to back up your files online with OneDrive.
- If you are replacing your current drive with an SSD, it may come with a separate disk cloning program. Use this software to clone and transfer the contents of your current hard drive (including the operating system) to a new drive. If the software does not come with the disc, visit the manufacturer's website to see if the cloning software can be downloaded from them. Other popular and reliable cloning software include Symantec Ghost, Clonezilla (one of the few free options), Acronis and Macrium.
- Look for information on how to back up your Windows computer to learn how to copy data to another drive.
- If you purchased any software with license keys, be sure to back it up and / or make copies of the keys so that they can be easily reinstalled.
Step 2. Get a full bootable copy of the operating system
If you are replacing the primary hard drive and are not using the cloning software, you will need to install the operating system on the new drive. Buy an OS on disk, download it to a flash drive, or create your own recovery media.
If you are using Windows 10, please refer to this guide
Step 3. Choose between HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or SSD (Solid State Drive)
Solid state drives are much faster than hard drives and have a longer lifespan due to fewer moving parts. Because of these advantages, SSDs are more expensive and smaller. If cost and capacity are a sore point for you, install a hard drive. However, keep in mind that after working at a computer with an SSD drive, it will be very difficult for you to return to your previous performance.
Step 4. Select the correct drive for your computer
Laptops typically use 2.5 "hard drives, while desktop computers also support 3.5" drives. Special adapters are available for 2.5 "drives, so they are suitable for desktops too. Most SSDs are 2.5 inches in size, so many modern manufacturers have started adding smaller drive bays to new models. If you are installing a smaller drive in a desktop computer that does not have a 2.5-inch bay, you will need an adapter. Hard drives are available in both sizes.
- SSDs, like HDDs, are usually connected to the motherboard using SATA connectors. Old hard drives can use an IDE ribbon cable, but they are rarely found anywhere. SATA usually has three different versions (SATA, SATA II and SATA III), so you need to find out which one your motherboard supports.
- Get a drive large enough to store all of your data.
Step 5. Turn off your computer and unplug it from the electrical outlet
Even if you are using a laptop, still make sure it is turned off and not plugged into an outlet.
Step 6. Ground yourself before opening the computer
Improper handling of electronic components can damage the entire system. To ground yourself, put on an antistatic wrist strap and stand on an antistatic mat.
If you are not familiar with proper grounding techniques, read How to Ground Yourself to Prevent Static Discharge from Your Computer
Step 7. Open the computer case
The exact sequence of steps depends on whether you are replacing the disk: on your desktop or laptop. If in a computer, then you will most likely need to unscrew the screws at the back of the system unit, and then slide the side panel.
- Some laptops have special doors on the case that allow you to easily insert and remove hard drives. To access the hard drive on other models, you will have to remove the battery and unscrew some parts of the case. Check the manufacturer's instructions for the correct method for your computer.
- Some system units do not use screws. If there are no screws on the case, look for a latch or button that allows you to open side doors or panels. Remove doors or panels if they get in the way.
Step 8. Find your hard drive
In desktop computers, the hard drive is inserted into a bay inside the computer case and screwed onto it. Locate the communication interface and power cable and disconnect them.
Step 9. Remove all screws and disconnect the drive
The drive will most likely be held in place by screws on either side of the bay. Unscrew the screws. If the drive is not locked into the casing or bay, hold it with your hand. After you remove all screws, remove the hard drive from the bay or chassis.
Step 10. Set jumpers on the IDE disk
If you are using a SATA drive, you can skip this step. After you remove the hard drive, look at the location of the jumpers on the drive itself. If you are unsure of where they are, take a look at the sticker on your hard drive for a diagram illustrating the location of the jumpers. The role of the drive on the channel depends on the position of the jumpers: it can be the master (Mater), the slave (Slave), or it can be detected automatically (Cable Select). Duplicate the position of the jumpers on the new disk.
Step 11. Insert the new drive into the same bay as the old one
Gently screw on the drive and reconnect the data interface and power cable.
Put the old drive in a safe place in case you ever need it
Step 12. Insert the system recovery media into your computer and turn it on
Skip this step if you cloned the disk using a cloning software. If the recovery media is on a DVD, turn on the computer to remove the disc tray. If it's on a USB flash drive, just insert it into your computer before turning it on. If your computer is configured to boot from a USB drive or DVD, it will automatically download Windows Installer.
- If your computer does not boot from recovery media, you will need to make certain changes to the BIOS. The way to enter BIOS depends on the motherboard model, but usually to enter the boot menu, just restart the computer and immediately press F12, F10 or Del. The login button should appear under the manufacturer's logo. If you miss a moment, you will have to restart your computer and try again.
- Once in BIOS, find the Boot Menu or Boot Order section, and then select the USB flash drive or DVD as the first device to boot. Exit and save your changes, then restart your computer.
Step 13. Follow the instructions on the screen to reinstall the operating system
After reinstalling Windows and reconnecting to the Internet, the computer will automatically re-register the operating system (although you may have to confirm several prompts). After booting from a new disk, you will be able to restore data from the created backup.