Move OEM Windows to new SSD

[JhonJLince]

Hello! 

So, my laptop came with an HDD, but because of work I'm getting an SSD

I want to keep both, the SSD to boot Windows and for some programs, and the HDD for storage of some documents. 

My question is, can I have Windows on the new SSD, knowing that the licensing of Windows is OEM. If so, how is the best way to do it?

Note: My laptop came with Windows 10, and now I have Windows 11. 

Thanks in advance

[banhien]

@JhonJLince 

License key is embedded in BIOS of your machine therefore your can reinstall Windows 10 (now 11) any time without a need of using license key.

That means you can CLONE existing HDD to new SSD OR you can perform a FRESH install Windows 11 to new SSD. 

Regards.

[JhonJLince]

Thanks for the answer!

I'm rather new to this, so if you kindly help me to know how to do a fresh install (or clone, whatever is better in you opinion), and how to procced with my HDD so it works as my storage unit.

For example, when I boot from the SSD do I need to have deleted Windows from my HDD? 

Regards,

Jhon

[banhien]

@JhonJLince 

Depending on what you want at the end result

• CLONE: Copy all data/files including programs from old HDD to new HDD/SSD. There are many free tools around

                     https://www.techrepublic.com/article/five-free-and-reliable-cloning-tools/

• FRESH installation:  Install Windows on an empty HDD/SSD using the following source to create a media (USB or DVD or ISO) then use that media to install Windows

                    https://www.microsoft.com/en-au/software-download

Note: Few years back I used to CLONE HDD's at least 10 times a year, this is the quickest way to rebuild machines because I did not have to re-install all programs.

Regards.

[JhonJLince]

Oh I think i got it,  and I'll settle  with the fresh install

I have a few last questions if you have time.

When I'm doing the fresh install should I download Windows 10? (the one my laptop came with) or can I download Windows 11? (the one that I have now).

And finally, can I do this install with both (HDD and SDD) connected to the laptop or is there any part of the process where I should disconnect the HDD?

You've helped me a lot. Thanks!