I'm looking to do a clean install of Windows using a CD instead of a flash drive. I know most guides focus on USB installations since they're more common these days, but I'm using an older hand-me-down PC from a friend, and he gave me the Windows CD and the license key. My new NVMe SSD is ready to go, but I'm a bit unsure about the exact steps. I was thinking of inserting the disc, shutting down the computer, disconnecting my old HDD, and then booting into BIOS to start the installation. Does that sound correct? Also, will just having the disc in while the computer is on erase my files on the HDD? Any tips would be greatly appreciated!
5 Answers
The process you described sounds solid! Just make sure to have your old HDD disconnected until you've completed the installation. This way, Windows won't mess with any boot records on that drive. After installation, you can reconnect it to retrieve any files you need.
Sounds like a smart plan! Thanks for clarifying that.
Just a heads-up: a CD might not hold the latest versions of Windows anymore. If it’s an older version, you should be fine, but otherwise, you might want to consider using a DVD instead!
True, not all Windows versions fit on a CD anymore. Just make sure you check the size!
Yeah, I remember my older installs used CDs. Now, it's all about USBs or DVDs.
Using the CD is cool, but remember: you don’t need the CD itself to install Windows. If you have the license key, you might consider creating a bootable USB for a quicker process. Just food for thought!
Yeah, if you're comfortable with the CD, go for it!
True, but it's nice to use what you already have! Whatever works, right?
You can definitely use your CD for the install. Just pop it in and follow the usual steps. The main thing is to set your BIOS to boot from the CD drive before the HDD. It should give you options during the install to either keep your files or wipe everything—just choose the one that fits your needs!
Yes, it's pretty straightforward! You might need to adjust the BIOS settings to prioritize the CD drive, but other than that, it should work smoothly.
Also, if you see a prompt during boot that says "Press any key to boot from CD," do it quickly!
The trick is to set the BIOS to boot from the CD drive first. Depending on your motherboard, hit F2, F12, or DEL right at startup to access BIOS. You’ll see the boot order option there. After that, just follow the installation prompts as usual!
Exactly! Make sure to keep spamming that key until you see the BIOS screen!
Yes! You got this! Just keep a lookout for the install prompts.
Got it! I’ll keep the old drive unplugged until the new OS is up and running.