My Windows 7 computer has been getting repeated BSODs, though the hard drives and memory check out ok. If I replace the current CPU with an Intel 6th gen CPU and appropriate motherboard, will I be able to boot up using the original C: drive, or will I need to do a clean (re)install of Windows 7 (and everything else)?
You may need to adjust it to boot on new hardware.
Make Windows 7 bootable after motherboard swap - Windows 7 Help Forums
That's not what you said in your Subject Title line......
Changing the motherboard throws a whole bunch of CRAP into the game.
It might work, installing drivers for the new hardware, and maybe it won't. If NOT, then you may need to reinstall Windows. I'd sure back up all my data before trying it.
OH...and GOOD LUCK,
TechnoMage
Thanks! I also checked out the link there to "How to Transfer your Complete Windows 7 Installation to New Computer", which might also work if I can accomplish sysprep without a BSOD. However the instructions say "if you have ever done a repair install (= in-place upgrade to same edition), you cannot sysprep." I haven't upgraded Windows 7 but I may have done a Windows repair in the past. Does this mean I can't use sysprep? How can I find out - just try it and see if it works?
Technomage2016 - thanks as well. Yes, I thought it would be the CPU that would be the problem, but I'm learning the motherboard may be worse. Data is backed up!
New MB requires some new drivers that aren't on the Win 7 installation disk or on your actual installation.
New MB also requires an activation that is only possible if you have a Retail license (not OEM)
Create a Windows 7 USB flash installation with new drives for new MB's - Windows 7 Help Forums
Before you buy a new system, try to do a clean installation on the old one.
Clean Install Windows 7 - Windows 7 Help Forums
Buy a small SSD (120 G) for windows and programs and use the HDD for data.
User Profiles - Create and Move During Windows 7 Installation - Windows 7 Help Forums
MS releases SP2 for Windows 7 - Windows 7 Help Forums
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