OS install
OS install
Hi, it's been roughly four years since I set up Windows 10. My current setup uses a SATA SSD, and I'm thinking about switching to an M.2 drive. I need guidance on how to prepare it before installation. I recall using a USB for the setup, but that's been quite some time. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. System details are available below.
Get the Media Creation Tool from Microsoft. It simplifies the process and generates a bootable USB stick for installing Windows. You won’t need to format the drive first; the tool will handle it automatically if there’s space. If needed, you can clear existing partitions and format the drive during installation (this erases all data—back up important files beforehand).
The Windows key is linked to your device, so you won’t have to re-enter it. When using a Microsoft account, it’s tied to that account and can be moved to another machine (https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/wind...Windows_10). You can’t export the key manually.
navigate to the activation page, press troubleshoot activation, it will recognize your account and refresh the status.