What is the easiest way to install new primary hard drive?

[Ferd]

I have two other hard drives in my computer. My operating system now is on "E" drive. I'm wanting to replace my "E" drive with a larger and faster drive.

I am currently backing up my entire "E" drive on my "C" drive.

Is it possible to simply pull out my current "E" drive and install a new "E" drive and then restore my backup to my new "E" drive? Or is it more complicated than that?

Thanks,
Ferd

 

[Gator]

If you really want it to be drive "E" go into Disk management and rename the current drive to what you want it to be. Disconnect all hard drives and connect your target drive.

Go into your bios, set your boot sequence to boot from CD/DVD (using your install disk to boot).
Do a fresh install as if it were a new system.
Once your install is complete, set your bios to boot from that drive.
Reconnect all other drives.

 

[bobkn]

The easiest way is to use drive cloning software.

I've used Acronis True Image. The manufacturer of the new disk probably has a free utility, which you can download even if you bought a bare (OEM) drive. I believe that Western Digital provides a version of True Image.

 

[Ferd]

OK, thanks. I'm going to order a new hard drive and give it a try.