HDD to SSD. Want Clean install to SSD. Copy/move files from HDD complications/scenarios?

[silvermeow0]

1. I have a windows 10 in an old HDD.
2. do a media creation tool to a usb
3. plug in new SSD
4. boot from usb then install windows 10 to the new SSD.
5. after windows 10 is installed in the SSD, how do you plug in the HDD properly
These are the steps I will be taking that make the most sense for what I want. Since I also want to clean install most the programs.
BUT
what my worry is transferring all the old files I NEED from HDD to SSD. Any complications I should know about? Any way to do it faster? or should I just use the 1TB HDD and Not transfer it to the now waste of extra space 1TB SSD
PLZ HELP

 

[USAFRet]

Your steps are pretty much correct.
Have only the SSD connected when you do the install.
How to do a CLEAN installation of Windows 10

After, verify the boot order so the SSD is before all others. Then reconnect the HDD.

Your old files?
The only thing you can transfer is your personal files. Not applications.
Just locate them, and copy.
Once you're absolutely sure there is nothing left on the HDD, wipe it clean. Delete all existing partitions.
Then, move things back to the HDD as desired.

 

[karenjoly]

I can think of several suggestions.

Set the mainboard to UEFI mode before the install starts.

Remove/disable the HDD prior to the install.

You cannot transfer installed applications .They need to be reinstalled on the SSD.

There does not appear to be a need to transfer files. The HDD will be accessible from the SSD once the HDD is re connected to the board.

The OS will remain available on the HDD should you ever need a second boot drive.

Or you can delete the windows files from the HDD for more space.

You need a back up application. Look at acquiring an imaging application like Macrium Reflect to store an image of the SSD on the HDD (which can be renewed from time to time) in case the SSD or the OS goes south .