I switched to Windows 10 and am now setting it up on an SSD.
I switched to Windows 10 and am now setting it up on an SSD.
You're preparing to upgrade your Windows 10 installation from an HDD to an SSD. You're considering a fresh install and want to know if you need the license key or just plug it in. Your plan involves turning off the PC, swapping the old HDD for the SSD via the data cable, and then booting from the USB. You also asked whether formatting is necessary while the system is running. Everything seems aligned with standard procedures—just ensure you have the correct installation media ready before proceeding. Let me know if you need further clarification!
I will start the USB boot once the SSD arrives later today. I plan to format the hard drive in the partition area, but I’m uncertain about the product key.
I need to understand the partition process later, but for now I recall reading that best practice is to unplug the HDD while installing the OS on the SSD. You likely know better than me about this. It's a 1TB WD HDD from 2009, and I plan to start over and format it later. Can I format it directly within the OS?
Provided you have completed the upgrade to Windows 10, the fresh installation on the SSD will automatically activate via the internet, eliminating the need to enter a key.
Don't power on the USB device, it will display all the hard drives and partitions. Delete every partition from the hard drive completely. Afterward, select to create new partitions on the SSD. Once done, your hard drive will be ready for use with files you don’t want stored there.
Check the device instructions or look for a confirmation signal.