Create a clone or system image using a new SSD.
Create a clone or system image using a new SSD.
I plan to upgrade my old laptop by replacing its HDD with a new SSD. The internet connection is slow and limited, making it hard to download Windows 10 easily for a fresh installation. I’m considering two methods: 1) Use Macrium Reflect Free to clone the current setup onto the new SSD, or 2) Create a system image and install it on the new drive. Once the SSD boots, I’ll format the old HDD and use it as the main storage. Regarding activation, since I have Windows 10 Pro with the latest update from 2004, I should check if the new SSD setup affects activation requirements. Edited September 27, 2020 by Gamer Guy
Copy it exactly. Activation won't be impacted. Only significant hardware updates might need activation, such as the motherboard or CPU.
You can follow the instructions in the advanced options dialog box. It will guide you through the steps and clarify which option to check and what to avoid.
Cloning affects all data on the OS disk, not just Windows files.
You didn’t adjust any options. Just pick the desired storage and choose the target drive, and Macrium will handle the rest.
It’s not completely accurate, but necessary. For instance, Macrium Reflect avoids the pagefile if needed, which saves time. Unless you opt for copying sectors one by one (not advised). This software is truly up-to-date, developed by skilled professionals. You can rely on it. However, personally I don’t fully trust Microsoft’s VSS service as much as used by Macrium Reflect, so I often create clones using a separate system or a bootable rescue USB (you can make one via this program).