I've just bought a new 256GB SSD for my PC and I'm hoping to install just my operating system on it while keeping all my other data and application settings on my existing 2TB SSD. Is there a way to do this, even if it might be a bit complicated? Also, I have a 2TB HDD for backups using Macrium Reflect, which I could potentially use to assist with this process.
5 Answers
Have you considered why you're making this change? If you’re reinstalling your OS frequently, it can help performance to have it on a separate drive. It keeps the drive cleaner and can speed things up a bit.
The simplest way to get your OS on the new SSD is to install it directly there and then change the boot order in your BIOS. After installation, you should be able to copy over user data settings. Just make sure to back everything up first!
You might find it easier to do a clean install of the OS directly onto the new SSD. This would involve setting everything up from scratch, but it ensures that you don’t accidentally copy over unwanted settings or apps from your old SSD. If you keep meticulous settings and installations, then that’s even better for a clean install!
There are also utilities that can help you mirror your existing drive, as long as your original drive isn't larger than the SSD. That way, you could clone your OS onto the SSD and then just adjust the BIOS to boot from it. After that, you could wipe your old drive if you want to.
Are you suggesting I should do the clean install on the 256GB SSD? I put a lot of effort into my current settings, so I’d really like to keep them intact if possible.