Want to move your Windows drive to your new computer? If yes, then you have come to the right place. If you have bought a new PC, then you will require to transfer your current apps, files, and operating system to your new device.

Simply replace the new PC hard disk with the old one. Is it really that easy? Well no, if you do that, then you may get your old files in your new PC but with many problems. You may not even get to the desktop screen as the drivers can vary by devices.

In some cases, it can even show you the blue screen after you turn on your PC. There is a “sysprep” tool developed by Microsoft which can solve the blue screen. However, it was not made to do this, and there is no guarantee that it will solve the issue.

It is not a good idea to replace the hard drive as instead of doing that there are much easier options available. Always go for a clean copy of Windows in the new PC.

How to Transfer Windows Drive into the New Computer

Step 1: Taking A Backup of the Whole Drive

Before moving ahead in the process, make sure to take a backup of the entire hard drive. This will be a good step since if anything happens terrible during the transfer process, then your data will remain in a safe place. If you already have a tool for taking a backup, then keep it ready. However, we recommend you to clone your whole hard drive. By doing that, you will be able to restore the whole hard drive.

Whatsoever taking the backup of your current system is essential as your data can be restored with its help if anything happens wrong.

Step 2: Transferring the Drive to New PC

Once the backup is complete, your next step is to exchange the hard drives in your old and new computer. If your hard drives have external enclosures, then take them off first. If you are getting confused, then read the instructions provided in the user manual. When you are done with the hardware, then turn on your computer. It may boot up with the new drive by itself, but if you don’t see any Window logo on your screen then try to navigate to the BIOS. You can do that by pressing a particular key on the startup. There you need to change the boot order. By doing so, your PC will boot the old drive, and that will bring you old PC Windows to the new one.

Step 3: Re-Installing Drivers

Now connect your PC to the internet and wait for a while. It may start downloading some essential drivers to your device. The system will download most of the drivers automatically, and your screen may appear like flickering. This generally happens system installs display drivers. Make sure not to use your device for an hour or more. Later you can also download some additional drivers manually from the manufacturer’s site.

When all drivers installed on your device, you can uninstall the old drivers as they can slow down your device.

Step 4: Activating the Windows in New PC

Windows generally detect new hardware changes which lead to the deactivated Windows. This won’t cause any trouble at all, and everything will work just fine. You may see a small watermark at the bottom-right corner of your desktop. If you decide to use this Windows for a long time, then you can easily re-activate your Windows.

Try by entering the same Product key that you received with your Windows installation disc at the time of purchase. You can also activate your Windows using Microsoft official site as there are many options such as buying a new product key and more.

Source:- http://gonortonnorton.com/how-to-transfer-your-windows-installation...

Mia Davis is a creative person who has been writing blogs and articles about cybersecurity. She writes about the latest updates regarding norton.com/setup and how it can improve the work experience of users. Her articles have been published in many popular e-magazines, blogs, and websites.