[SOLVED] Want to upgrade to SSD, how to move over Windows license?

[ThumperStrauss]

I would like to upgrade the HDD in my P7-1459 with a SSD. However, I'm not sure how to using WIndows 10 (that came with the HP) on the new device. Do I need to deactivate it on the existing HDD and then activate it on the new SSD after a fresh install? Or should I clone the HDD and move everything over?

[Paul_Tikkanen · Accepted solution]

Hi:

Since your PC was upgraded to W10, you can either clean install it on the new SSD or you can clone the old HDD to the SSD.

To clean install W10, use the Media Creation Tool to create installation media (Save ISO file and burn to a DVD, or create a USB flash drive)

https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows10

If you are asked to enter a product key during the installation process, select the 'I don't have a product key,' option and W10 will install and automatically activate once you are connected to the internet.

[ThumperStrauss]

UPDATE: I used Macrium Reflect to clone my HDD to my new WD SSD 1TB drive. Worked perfectly. No issues with Windows license. My boot time (including opening Chrome and waiting for start page to appear) was 2m 50s. Now it is 59s. I'm happy I make the switch.