Windows Installation on New HDD (ASUS)

[CloudedJudgement]

I want to (re)install Windows 7 to another HDD that I'm currently using for media. The primary HDD with the OS is on its last legs, so I guess I'm going to trash it. I managed to get the .ISO for my version of Windows as the computer didn't come with a CD (which, btw, was a pain because Windows was preinstalled in this ASUS prebuilt and Windows stopped distributing the ISO, even if you have the key, for these types of cases) and created a bootable USB with Rufus. Tested it and it runs.

I'm assuming I need to reformat the old HDD (the former media HDD), disconnect the old HDD with my OS (the one I'm trashing), boot to the USB, and I can use that ISO/Rufus/Windows Boot to install Windows 7 with my old key to my other HDD (again, the formerly media one)? That's all I want to do: basically move my installation of Windows 7 from one HDD to another on the same computer. All others parts stay put. Well, all internal parts like the MOBO and whatnot. I want the files gone, which is why I'm not cloning.

Need a fresh installation because I'm giving the old PC to a friend. I'm particularly worried about the key not working for some reason (Windows still installed on the other HDD? OEM problem? idk). Probably paranoid because the Windows site wouldn't accept my key to get the ISO in the first place and I've searched this online and come across some horror stories.

So am I approaching this correctly? Both in process and idea. Thanks for any help!

 

[MrTuRtLe03]

Yeah, you should be fine. If windows doesn't activate for some reason with that key, using their phone activation will usually activate it. Otherwise, you sound like you're good to go!