How do I reinstall Windows 10 after changing motherboards?

[Ankaruz]

I recently changed my motherboard from a MSI FM2-A75MA-E35 to a MSI A55M-E35. I have been told that I should do a clean install of my OS after changing motherboards but I'm not quite sure how to do so while keeping my files. How can I do this?

 

[aldan]

windows 10 is tied to your original hardware and ms may or may not activate it for you.as for keeping your files you will have to backup anything you want to keep to an external source.

 

[mbarnes86]

The Clean install will wipe the contents of the C: drive
So any data files you want to keep need to be backed up or stored on D: or other drive letter or over the network in the Cloud etc

Sometimes it is possible to change motherboard without a clean install,
(though it is not recomended unless motherboard is similar to old one eg same chipset)

(backup in data case things go wrong)
uninstall drivers from control panel Programs
such as audio, network, graphics card (if using build in graphics)

remove hard disk controller driver from registry
using tools such as Fix HDC found in Hirens Boot CD

Then shut down windows and change motherboard

This assumes you have a retail copy of Win 10 or you upgraded a retail copy of older Windows 7 or 8 or 8.1
OEM Windows versions do not allow motherboard upgrades.

regards
Mike Barnes

 

[Ankaruz]

Is it sufficient to just copy the C:\Users folder onto Google Drive, clean install, install new drivers, and then bring the users folder back?