Question Just bought PC parts to upgrade my lacking system.. Want to install Windows on new SSD but not loose the games on my 1TB HDD

[SKY_12]

My current system consists of Ryzen 3 1200, Asus A320M and a WD 1TB HDD Cav Blue (currently no SSD or other drives until I insert my new parts.)... I'm upgrading to an i5 9400F, MSI B360M Pro-VD and RTX 2080 and an SSD for new Windows 10 boot.. SSD: 120GB (Windows 10 only)

I have games installed on my 1TB HDD along with Windows 10... I know that when I swap motherboards, I will be forced to wipe Win 10 and all data on 1TB HDD.

Question: Is there anyway that I can install Windows 10 on my new SSD and keep all of my games and data on my 1TB drive???

 

[rgd1101]

you don't need to wipe the data drive.
where the games from?
unplug the hdd when you install windows.

 

[USAFRet]

For the OS activation, read and do this before you change any parts:
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/20530/windows-10-reactivating-after-hardware-change

Windows build 1607 and Activation

So, the Anniversary release is out, and many people have updated their machines. Interesting changes with activation and hardware changes. Specifically, the Activation troubleshooter: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/20527/windows-... You must link your OS license with your MS account...

forums.tomshardware.com

Then, the install:

How To - Windows 10 clean install tutorial

If you are looking for the Windows 11 Clean install tutorial, you can find that here: Windows 11 Clean install tutorial (Click here) Otherwise, welcome to the Windows 10 Clean install tutorial This tutorial is intended to help you, step by step, to perform a clean install of Windows...

forums.tomshardware.com

Later, reconnect the old drive.
Assuming these are Steam games, the new Steam client you install can access these games.
Steam games location
In the steam client:
Steam
Settings
Downloads
Steam Library Folders
Add library folder