new hard drive!

[zach sanger]

so, my son and i started with a basic refurbished computer, and started upgrading. we are at the point where the only original components are the hard drive and the disc drive. anyway, when switching out for a new hard drive, what is the best way to re install windows. Is a service like clonezilla really the best way? can I just install the new hard drive without uninstalling the old one yet and clone it locally? We do not have the disc.

 

[zach sanger]

so one answer on here is yes absolutely. to move the 0s as well we must clone. and they gave this site. http://www.macrium.com/reflectfree.aspx I guess the question is then which free option is best.

 

[johnnyb105]

That will work also I use this one its free works like a charm as well and can clone your drive simple and easy to use..

http://www.backup-utility.com/free-backup-software.html

 

[USAFRet]

so one answer on here is yes absolutely. to move the 0s as well we must clone. and they gave this site. http://www.macrium.com/reflectfree.aspx I guess the question is then which free option is best.

Macrium Reflect is my go-to application for this.
Assuming the actual OS on the drive actually works well.

However, with all new parts (motherboard?) a clean install is highly recommended.