Fresh install of windows on primary hard drive

[AdamGM]

Greetings,

I bought a new 2 Tb hard drive because my primary one was getting full.

I would like to do a fresh install on the primary drive once I have moved over all the games, videos, pictures, etc. that I don't want to lose.

I can format the primary drive and reinstall windows without affecting the content on the second drive, correct?
Is there anything I need to know?

 

[essenbe]

The only thing you need to know is to disconnect your primary drive before you do the install. After the install, re connect the primary drive, get your data off and format it if you want to. This tutorial may help. http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/1649-clean-install-windows-7-a.html

 

[AdamGM]

Disconnect it from what? I want windows to go back onto the same drive.

I was thinking I could copy my data to the second drive first.
Format disk the old disk, and then reinstall windows.

That's wrong?

 

[essenbe]

I misunderstood the question. Yes you can do exactly what you want. But, it is always safer to have only the drive you are installing Windows to connected. After the install, reconnect any drives you want to.

 

[bigmck]

I think essenbe misread your message. You should only have your primary drive connected so that Windows gets on it and not another by accident. == After you copy your data to the second drive, disconnect it and install Windows on the primary drive. Good luck.

 

[AdamGM]

Cool, thanks a lot.

I can format it from within windows without issues?

 

[bigmck]

Cool, thanks a lot.

I can format it from within windows without issues?

You don't need to format your primary drive. When you install Windows, it will format everything for you and you will end up with a fresh install. Good luck.

 

[gregrocker]

Follow these same steps to Clean Reinstall - Factory OEM Windows 7.

The best way to organize your files is to sort them into the standard User folders - Documents, Pictures, Music, Downloads, Desktop, etc.

Then drag each User folder to your storage HD. After you make sure everything is there, unplug it during install.

After install plug back in storage HD. You can keep your User folders on the storage drive and simply rightclick each to link it to the related Library - Include a Folder - Windows 7 Forums .

This keeps the Win7 OS/Programs backup image smaller and more manageable so that if Win7 ever becomes irreparable you can reimage it to HD or replacement in 20 minutes and your files are safe, current and waiting. Backup Complete Computer - Create an Image Backup