Question Is there a way to force Windows to use only the SSD for boot files without unplugging the existing HDD?

[kyria9]

I need to reinstall Windows 10 on a family members computer. It has an SSD that contained the corrupted install and a HDD that had an old Windows 7 install on it, but was not bootable and mainly used for media storage. Now I know you are supposed to unplug all other drives before doing a clean install, but physical access is a bit of a problem. The panels have a lock, and the owner can't find the key. Is there a way to hide the other drive or otherwise force the installation to the SSD only without actually having to unplug the other drive?

 

[USAFRet]

Only if there is a way to actually disable it in the BIOS.
And I wouldn't even trust that.

 

[kyria9]

Ah, well, I guess I wait til my husband gets home with the bolt cutters then...

 

[Wolfshadw]

If the drives are locked in place, can you not just disconnect the SATA connection?

-Wolf sends

 

[kyria9]

The side panels of the case had a padlock. At some point in the past a roommate had been stashing items inside. Roommate long gone, lock forgotten about. Its gone now though...