Performing a fresh installation of Windows 10 ensures a clean setup without existing data.
Performing a fresh installation of Windows 10 ensures a clean setup without existing data.
You should prepare the installation media for another PC first. Then follow the steps to create a bootable USB drive. After that, you can use the tool to upgrade your Windows 8.1 to Windows 10 on the SSD.
Set up version 8.1 on your new SSD. Upgrade to version 10, then perform a clean installation. The activation key will be enabled automatically after the fresh install. This is the recommended method. If your motherboard remains unchanged, you're all set—it's treated as the same system.
You received the 8.1 through your school's digital distribution.
1. Connect SSD to the computer [connect data and power]
2. Disconnect HDD from the computer [to prevent data loss]
3. Prepare the required media [boot drive with Windows 10 ISO]
4. Launch the Windows 10 installer via BIOS [follow steps in my sig; links may be broken, but the ISO is all you need]
5. BOOM! [Refer to the instructions in my sig for guidance.]
6. If upgrading, Windows will install on the HDD and let you choose whether to erase or retain files
Avoid making that mistake! First, upgrade from Windows 8.1; otherwise, your Windows 10 won't activate. I encountered this issue and had to reinstall my old Windows 8 and then upgrade. You can perform a clean installation of Windows 10 now. (Or wait until after the upgrade if you prefer)
This method functions effectively for me. To proceed, select "create installation media for another PC" in the upgrade tool, then generate a bootable USB drive or burn a DVD. Start the installation by booting from the USB/DVD and complete the setup on your SSD. Finished.