Yes, you can move Windows 7 from an HDD to an SDD without removing it.
Yes, you can move Windows 7 from an HDD to an SDD without removing it.
I’ll have to purchase a fresh Windows license since my version is OEM.
I considered doing the same, chose a clean install. It’s worth the effort to reinstall all your programs. You’ll be surprised by how much faster things run.
That identifier is sufficient for verifying Windows. Without a Windows 7 CD you can obtain an ISO file and store it on a USB stick. Install Windows from the USB and activate it using your key. Numerous YouTube guides explain the process of installing from a USB drive.
I don’t know the exact places to download Windows ISO, but someone on the forum might have the info. You can also check YouTube tutorials—some mention SATA 3 SSD being faster than SATA 2.
Purchase a SATA 3 SSD, as they work with SATA 2 motherboards. My setup uses SATA 2 and it performs much better than a standard HDD. Switching to a SATA 3 slot will further enhance speed.