new hdd transfer

[gazmister2004]

I am buying a new hard drive to replace my old one which is my main primary c drive but I want to get rid of it and start a fresh with my new one, can I transfer windows and everything on the hard drive to the new one?

 

[rolli59]

Only way you can do that is by cloning! Other wise you will have to re install everything starting with windows.

I have used this software for cloning several times, it is simple http://download.cnet.com/EaseUS-Todo-Backup-Free/3000-2242_4-10964460.html

 

[Chicano]

DriveImageXML is imho one of the best cloning applications.. it has several cloning modes.. it can make image files of complete partitions or of files only and it's free and easy to use.

DriveImage XML V2.50
http://www.runtime.org/driveimage-xml.htm

 

[gazmister2004]

Ok and does that keep all my files and programs or I do I have to reinstall everything,also does it keep all my acer software that is pre installed ?

 

[rolli59]

Yes cloning will make an exact copy of the drive. If you want to get rid of the software either you will have to delete/uninstall it or start fresh with a new windows install.

 

[Y0GI]

Here is a direct link to EasUS which will avoid the C-Net bloatware: http://www.todo-backup.com/products/home/free-backup-software.htm

Yogi

 

[Chicano]

Yes, any cloning application makes an exact copy of your system partition (or only files in it if the application includes the option) and that means it copies everything on it (including malware, virus, etc.*) to the date and time you make the copy (also known as image, backup, etc).

* Due to this, I'd suggest you scan for virus and malware and run CCleaner to remove temp files and unnecessary data, before making the cloned image.