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Going from Z97 to AM4, can I use same SSD containing my previous Windows install?

S

sn2x

Joined
Apr 14, 2016
Messages
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My plan is to just insert my old SSD into the new system and for the OS and files to remain. Will this work?
 
The hardware change will force a reactivatiion for sure so if it’s an OEM key it may be a problem. Windows 10 is quite “forgiving” with hardware changes despite that but I would still recommend a clean install anyway.
 
Fresh install is the answer.
 
Did it about a week ago on a windows 10 system. Was forced to reactivate so I threw an old Win 7 enterprise key at it.

Like Instg8r said the OS forgiving on hardware swap as far as getting them booted and operating is concerned.
 
The only time i've had issues, i resolved them by shutting down into safe mode first
this is a copy-paste for changing between IDE/AHCI/RAID modes, but is also useful for situations where USB drivers dont load, or you get BSODS from drivers you need to remove (had this with Asus mobos, had to disable some service or it would BSOD on non-asus mobos when ported over)

1. Run Command Prompt as Admin
2. Invoke a Safe Mode boot with the command: bcdedit /set {current} safeboot minimal
3. Restart the PC and enter your BIOS during bootup.
4. Change from IDE to AHCI mode then Save & Exit.
5. Windows 10 will launch in Safe Mode.
6. Right click the Window icon and select to run the Command Prompt in Admin mode from among the various options.
7. Cancel Safe Mode booting with the command: bcdedit /deletevalue {current} safeboot
8. Restart your PC once more and this time it will boot up normally but with AHCI mode activated.
 
I’ve never had any issues doing so
 
I would try it. I have done this several times no issues. Like the others have said; you will loose activation with an oem key.
just buy another on Ebay for like $4.. You should remove any 3rd party drivers from the old motherboard though.

3 days ago I installed a copy of win 10 on a old dell (in IDE mode, non-UEFI of course)
Then removed that drive; installed it in a 2009 mac pro and it worked just fine via bootcamp.
 
Mussels said:
The only time i've had issues, i resolved them by shutting down into safe mode first
this is a copy-paste for changing between IDE/AHCI/RAID modes, but is also useful for situations where USB drivers dont load, or you get BSODS from drivers you need to remove (had this with Asus mobos, had to disable some service or it would BSOD on non-asus mobos when ported over)

1. Run Command Prompt as Admin
2. Invoke a Safe Mode boot with the command: bcdedit /set {current} safeboot minimal
3. Restart the PC and enter your BIOS during bootup.
4. Change from IDE to AHCI mode then Save & Exit.
5. Windows 10 will launch in Safe Mode.
6. Right click the Window icon and select to run the Command Prompt in Admin mode from among the various options.
7. Cancel Safe Mode booting with the command: bcdedit /deletevalue {current} safeboot
8. Restart your PC once more and this time it will boot up normally but with AHCI mode activated.
Click to expand...
That's really handy tip that, to be honest it's a shame to bury it in a thread.
 
Previous chipset, usb, soundcard, etc drivers can cause some issues, not working properly. But there is a slighty chance it may work, but fresh install is the best.
Mussels suggestions seems fine too :)
 
If it's an OEM license it might not activate.
 
As already mentioned - the only problem may be activation. Other than that there should be no issues.
I have a test-drive on my office which I use to test various motherboards and I had no problems switching between embedded boards, sFM2/FM2+, LGA1155/50/51, 2011v3 or AM4.
Just stick it into the new machine, update your drivers, re-activate Windows if needed, and you are good to go. Just for the sake of cleanliness you may also run some sort of cleaner to get rid of old drivers and sweep up registry keys.
 
Thanks, the transfer worked fine and I was able to backup my files.
 
I'd do a fresh install ... i have had several 'tarsnfers" brought in due to performance issues and still found AMD drivers installed on the new Intel builds

As far as the license...MS EULA quoted below

"
4. Transfer. The provisions of this section do not apply if you acquired the software in Germany or in any of the countries listed on this site (aka.ms/transfer), in which case any transfer of the software to a third party, and the right to use it, must comply with applicable law.

a. Software preinstalled on device. If you acquired the software preinstalled on a device (and also if you upgraded from software preinstalled on a device), you may transfer the license to use the software directly to another user, only with the licensed device. The transfer must include the software and, if provided with the device, an authentic Windows label including the product key. Before any permitted transfer, the other party must agree that this agreement applies to the transfer and use of the software.

b. Stand-alone software. If you acquired the software as stand-alone software (and also if you upgraded from software you acquired as stand-alone software), you may transfer the software to another device that belongs to you. You may also transfer the software to a device owned by someone else if (i) you are the first licensed user of the software and (ii) the new user agrees to the terms of this agreement. You may use the backup copy we allow you to make or the media that the software came on to transfer the software. Every time you transfer the software to a new device, you must remove the software from the prior device. You may not transfer the software to share licenses between devices."
 
Should be fine, not really worth the upgrade unless you're going for the 2700 or 2700X TBH
 
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