transfer windows 11 to new drive

Leonard Frost 0 Reputation points
2025-12-05T03:28:22.0166667+00:00

How do I transfer my windows 11 to a newly installed drive?

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Install and upgrade
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  1. Q&A Assist
    2025-12-05T03:29:35.8333333+00:00
    AI generated content. This question contains an answer created with AI from Q&A Assist. Learn more

    To transfer Windows 11 to a newly installed drive, you can follow these general steps:

    1. Create a Backup: Before proceeding, ensure that you back up your important files and data.
    2. Prepare Installation Media: You will need a bootable USB drive with Windows 11 installation files. You can create this using the Windows Media Creation Tool.
    3. Install Windows 11 on the New Drive:
      • Connect the bootable USB drive to your PC.
      • Boot from the USB drive by selecting it in the boot menu (usually accessed by pressing a key like F12, Esc, or F10 during startup).
      • In the Windows Setup, select Custom installation when prompted.
      • Choose the new drive as the installation destination and follow the prompts to install Windows 11.
    4. Transfer Files and Settings: After installation, you can transfer your files from the backup you created earlier. You may also need to reinstall applications and adjust settings as necessary.
    5. Activate Windows: If your Windows 11 was previously activated, it should activate automatically once connected to the internet. If not, you may need to enter your product key.

    Make sure to consult your device manufacturer’s instructions for any specific requirements related to your hardware.

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  2. Ivan B 86,955 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-12-05T04:06:48.38+00:00

    Hi,

    If you're going to install it, you need to back up your data and use a USB installation drive for Windows 11, as explained in the Q&A.

    Regarding the license, if you purchased the license separately and it's probably a retail digital license, and you want to use the license from your old PC, and if it came with Windows 11 and the license is OEM, you won't be able to use it; you would have to buy a new license.

    To check the license for your old PC:

    https://apps.microsoft.com/detail/9pkvzcprx9nv?hl=pt-BR&gl=AO

    This will note your license number and show the type.

    If you have any difficulty, I can instruct you on how to create an installation drive with more step-by-step instructions.

    Thanks


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