What’s the best way to install Windows when upgrading components?

[Snowy]

Hi all,
I’m upgrading my PC for the first time in just under 5 years. I’m wondering if there is a best/preferred method for getting Windows on my new machine. Can I just install via a thumb drive and use the product key in my current system settings? Or should I clone my existing SSD to my new SSD? Is there any downside to cloning versus a fresh install?

for reference my new components are:
AMD 3900X
Asus ROG Strix B550-E
Samsung 980Pro PCIe 4 SSD
Crucial Ballistix 2x16GB 3600Mhz CL16

 

[Brian_B]

Fresh install using existing product key is usually your best bet. I would only clone if you have other stuff that can’t transfer any other way, as drivers and stuff tend to get confused at best if you change underplaying hardware.

if you have linked your product key to your Microsoft account it can transfer over after you dereigster your original PC without needing the product key

If your older computer is an OEM the license is not eligible for transfer

 

[Snowy]

I have a Windows 10 "Education" license from college that I've been using for the last 5 years... Trying to figure out whether or not I can get use that to do a clean install of Windows on the new hardware..

 

[Brian_B]

I have a Windows 10 "Education" license from college that I've been using for the last 5 years... Trying to figure out whether or not I can get use that to do a clean install of Windows on the new hardware..

Can always try it - the worst thing that can happen is it will tell you it's having trouble activating and make you call into the 1-800 number -- where they may or may not authorize the license transfer depending on what you tell them on the phone.

"My other computer broke and I had to replace the motherboard" usually will work.

 

[Stoly]

Fresh install using existing product key is usually your best bet. I would only clone if you have other stuff that can’t transfer any other way, as drivers and stuff tend to get confused at best if you change underplaying hardware.

That used to be the case before windows 7, since then, windows is much more forgiving with drivers even if you switch from AMD to Intel, worst case it will deactivate the key but sometimes reentering the key will work, or you can call the 800 number.

On my gaming machine I've cloned the SSD once and reinstalled other time after changing mobos, no issues whatsoever in both cases, but on my other machines I reinstall, as pretty much everything is on the cloud anyway.

 

[DrezKill]

I usually tend to do fresh installs, especially if the current Windows install is the better part of a decade old.

 

[Grimlakin]

Just find a trusted vendor online and get a windows 11 pro key. Should be around 40 bucks. Then you can rather easily do a fresh build. I recommend using a 16 gig usb drive, create a bootable drive, copy a folder with the most current drivers and bios for your new hardware and get to work. You'll have a less painful build experience.