Windows 8.1 on SSD setup – upgrade to HDD, needed drivers, BIOS update, optimization tips, many questions.
Windows 8.1 on SSD setup – upgrade to HDD, needed drivers, BIOS update, optimization tips, many questions.
Hey there, friends. I'm trying to set everything up correctly so that whenever I install software, it automatically goes to my HDD instead of my SSD. I only want the SSD for games, specific programs, and the operating system. I made a mistake and now I'm thinking about a full reset. How should I erase the HDD? Should I just delete everything on it? Is formatting it okay? What should I do?
I've heard that formatting SSDs or HDDs isn't a good idea. What are some alternatives? When I reinstall Windows, should I go through Update & Recovery and choose "Remove Everything and Reinstall Windows"? Or should I use the installer from my USB drive with the ISO?
Can I keep important files like drivers and OS settings on the SSD, but move my user folders (Documents, Downloads, etc.) to the HDD? I don't mind having program files and x86 data on the SSD for installing drivers.
For new software, would I need separate folders like in an SSD? Or can I just create one folder and redirect all installations there?
I was looking into driver updates and firmware changes, including flashing the BIOS to new firmware. I used an Asus Z97 chip file from a USB drive, but now I'm unsure if I should revert to the original version since I didn't save the exact version. The file I downloaded was the Z97-A BIOS 2401 from Asus.
After reinstalling my OS, what files should I download from the Asus website? I saw some suggestions online, but some files caused errors—maybe they weren't compatible or required additional software. I'm not sure which ones are essential.
I also read about optimizing SSDs and HDDs during Windows installation for better performance and longevity. If I keep going through this, could you help me with some guidance?
Regarding my HDD: do I really need to format it? Even though I can browse, I'm not sure if it's necessary.
I have a Samsung 850 EVO SSD, a WD Blue 1TB HDD, an i5-4690K processor, and a GTX 970. I'm still trying to figure this out after spending two days searching for answers.
P.S. I don't have an optical drive, even though many parts came with CDs. I'm also using a Samsung 850 EVO SSD, WD Blue 1TB HDD, and I'm hoping you can still assist me. Thanks a lot!
1.) Backing up drives works well for them. If you want to wipe everything, reformatting is the fastest option.
2.) I’d start from the Windows Installer, delete your boot partition, set up a new one, and install fresh.
3.) You can’t move the User folder to a hard drive, but you can easily shift the default Music, Picture, Documents, and Downloads folders. Find this under the folder properties.
4.) Updating the BIOS isn’t usually necessary; keep the current version on the chip if you don’t need it.
5.) Which files did you install? Did you choose the right operating system?
6.) I follow the standard formatting method, and Windows usually handles SSD optimizations like Trim automatically.
I've added these items from the site: Z97-A BIOS 2401 - Under BIOS Tab Intel® Chipset Software Installation Utility V10.0.20 for Windows 7/8/8.1 32bit & 64bit. (WHQL) - Under Chipset Realtek Audio Driver V6.0.1.7344 for Windows 7/8/8.1 32bit & 64bit. (WHQL) - Under Audio Turbo LAN V1.05.03 for Windows Win7 32bit & Win7 64bit & Win8 32bit & Win8 64bit. - Under LAN and I'm uncertain if I need that or Intel® Gigabit Ethernet Driver V19.1.51.0 for Windows 7/8/8.1 32bit & 64bit. (WHQL) from the same LAN Tab Intel AHCI/RAID Driver Path for Windows Win7 32bit & Win7 64bit & Win8 32bit & Win8 64bit & Win8.1 32bit & Win8.1 64bit. Intel Rapid Storage Technology Driver software V13.1.0.1058 for Windows Win7 64bit & Win8 64bit & Win8.1 64bit ---(WHQL). Intel Rapid Storage Technology Driver software V13.1.0.1058 for Windows Win7 32bit & Win8 32bit & Win8.1 32bit ---(WHQL). Under the SATA Tab I didn't download Version 1.00.83 file under Utilities, unsure if I need it? How would I reformat my HDD? When you mention booting off Windows Installer, are you suggesting I should do this? http://bootableusb.net/install-windows-7...-easy-way/ You use the CMD tool to list disks, clean, select partitions, etc. Also, I don't remember the original BIOS version that came with it from the stock shelf—how could I revert to the original? Thanks!
Downgrading isn't useful—trying it might cause the system to fail and you could face complications. The BIOS update is complete, so I'll skip it. Usually I just format my hard drives using Computer or Disk Management. But if the drive is a boot device, it should be handled through Windows Installer or after installation finishes. When I mean "Windows Installer," I'm talking about the Windows ISO used to install Windows.
Discuss optimization techniques for SSDs on Reddit's r/buildapc forum.
Hey Sol21, I’m considering @Godlygamer23’s advice. Here’s what I think: - A straightforward setup should suffice—just removes the partition table, making your drive invisible to the system and overwriting everything above. You’ll find this option in the Windows installer when prompted during installation. For a thorough wipe, use software that offers a “zeroing” feature (like WD Data Lifeguard Diagnostic: http://products.wdc.com/support/kb.ashx?id=Te2veF for HDDs). For SSDs, most manufacturers provide “secure erase” tools (often available on their sites). This is best if you want a clean slate instead of just formatting. - I’d also suggest making a bootable USB with the Windows installer files for a full reinstall. You can find instructions here: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download...nload-tool. - Besides the standard directories mentioned, you might want to relocate the pagefile and hiberfil files onto the HDD. Experiment with their sizes or turn them off to free up space on the SSD. - The Windows Update feature usually covers most needs. If issues arise, check the motherboard’s official site or the specific hardware manufacturer for guidance. - Besides the default options, you can adjust storage settings—move files to HDDs, disable or resize the pagefile, and so on. This can significantly boost SSD performance. - The Windows Update tool should handle most requirements. If something fails, consult the latest updates from the motherboard maker or the relevant hardware vendor. - For SSDs, ensure TRIM is enabled, monitor S.M.A.R.T. health, and avoid defragmentation—it can harm the drive’s longevity. The OS will manage the rest. Captain_WD.
Thank you all—this has been very helpful. I’m finally able to focus and use the computer as usual!
I found something and checked if it’s necessary to remove these partitions. Drive 0 Partition 1: Recovery - 300mb used, 287mb free, type Recovery Drive. Drive 0 Partition 2: 99mb used, 69mb free, type System Drive. Drive 0 Partition 3: 128mb used, 128mb free, type MSR (Reserved). I can format the first two or all three. Should I proceed? Drive 0 Partition 4 is my SSD primary, and I have unallocated space on Drive 1 (my HDD). The only choice is to create a new partition there. I’m installing Windows on the SSD. Thanks, everyone. EDIT: All partitions deleted and formatted.