I've recently built a new PC and I'm having a tough time getting Windows 11 to install on my new 2TB NVMe SSD. I upgraded from a smaller setup and even added a larger HDD to help with the installation process, but things aren't going smoothly. Every time I try to install Windows, it gets stuck at around 77% and then just restarts, booting me back into the BIOS. I've tried changing BIOS settings, using a USB installer, and even attempted to clone my HDD to the NVMe, but I keep running into issues due to different sector sizes. I'm wondering if anyone has advice on how to successfully get Windows installed on my NVMe drive without having to buy another one. Any help would be appreciated!
5 Answers
I'd recommend remaking your USB installer using the official Media Creation Tool from Microsoft's website. It's possible there could be an issue with the current installer you're using. Just ensure there's no other drive connected during installation to avoid any mix-ups.
If you're able to boot into Windows on the HDD, try using Macrium Reflect to clone the install to your NVMe. Just make sure to remove the HDD afterward before trying again. This could help simplify the process.
Updating the firmware on both your NVMe drive and motherboard might help fix some compatibility issues. NVMe can be tricky sometimes, and firmware updates can make a difference.
Thanks for the tip! Can you give me more details on how to update the firmware? Is it just downloading drivers from the manufacturer's site?
Start fresh by removing the HDD and only having the NVMe connected. Boot from your USB, and make sure that there are no partitions on the NVMe disk. Windows should create those automatically during installation. That might help smooth out the process!
It sounds like you might still have the boot partition on your HDD. Try disconnecting all NVMe drives except your new 2TB before starting the installation to eliminate confusion about where Windows is being installed. If that doesn't work, consider cloning your HDD install to the NVMe, but make sure to adjust the partition sizes if necessary—it's a bit tedious but can be done!
I actually tried unplugging my HDD but still can't get it to work. I attempted cloning it with Macrium, but there are sector incompatibilities. The HDD is showing larger than the NVMe, making it tricky to fit everything.
I gave that a shot, but the sector sizes between the drives aren't compatible, and Macrium wouldn't allow it to go through.