Can I install a fresh OS and programs onto a internal HD connected to my PC by USB?

Fishman57

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Jun 18, 2011
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Can I do a OS install plus my programs onto a non system formatted internal HD through a USB port? I would like to make a fresh copy of OS and programs and possibly then clone it to the SSD in my desktop and keep the HD for a backup. I don`t want to clone the SSD to it or wipe the SSD and reload everything onto it. I also need to switch the BIOS from RAID to AHCI. Didn`t do it the first time. I see how to do it from reading here but am unclear on exactly when. So if you can offer any advise or comments I am a novice and ...thanks Thomas
 
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If you prepare properly and have all your ducks in a row, a full reinstall of the OS and your applications (on the SSD) shouldn't take more than a day.
I knew I would get these answers. Makes much more sense your way. I cloned an old hard drive with alot of outdated stuff to SSD and instead of going through trying to clean it out, I though maybe just fresh install on a new one and clone that . While I can keep using the SSD as I do it.
 


If you prepare properly and have all your ducks in a row, a full reinstall of the OS and your applications (on the SSD) shouldn't take more than a day.
 
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