Want to move HD to another PC

michgal2kmichgal2k
edited August 2010 in Science & Tech
Just curious if someone can help me. I had a HD crash and I have another HD that I want to move to the dead PC because it has a faster processor and more RAM. Before I do that, I would like to check that there is no malware on the old PC. Is that possible? It recently had a virus....the PC still acts up - takes you to a webpage you didn't ask for and opens a new browser at times.

Also would like to know the steps to move the HD to another PC. Is it just plug - n- play?

Comments

  • ardichokeardichoke Icrontian
    edited August 2010
    Sounds to me like you're better off wiping and doing a fresh install.

    That said, it is POSSIBLE to move the drive to new hardware but it is not a simple procedure. Unless it has the exact same drive controller model in it (which is doubtful) Windows will BSOD on boot. You would need to screw around with a bunch of stuff to get the correct drivers working at boot time in order to successfully transplant the drive. Since it already has some form of malware or virii on it, you would be far better off to back up your data, transplant the hardware, then format and reinstall.
  • michgal2kmichgal2k
    edited August 2010
    I am willing to reformat if that is better. First question though - if I back up my data - will I be transferring the virus or malware?

    On to the reformat - do I do that before I remove it or after? What is the best & easiest way to reformat? By reinstalling - i assume you mean the OS? I have that:)
  • ardichokeardichoke Icrontian
    edited August 2010
    As long as you're only backing up your data (music, documents, movies, things like that) you shouldn't end up transferring the virus. What you don't want to back up: entire programs (just reinstall them, download the latest version if necessary and legal). If you format and reinstall in the old hardware you'll be in the same boat as far as moving the drive to new hardware and the fact that it's hard to get that to work properly. Transplant the hard drive, pop in your windows CD, do a full format when it prompts you.
  • michgal2kmichgal2k
    edited August 2010
    Sorry got confused...."If you format and reinstall in the old hardware you'll be in the same boat as far as moving the drive to new hardware and the fact that it's hard to get that to work properly. Transplant the hard drive, pop in your windows CD, do a full format when it prompts you. ".....

    I am only going to back up files (documents & pictures). Move the old HD to the newer PC and install a new OS. When I install the new OS, it will ask me if I want to do a full reformat - I will say YES. Is that right or am I missing something? I just don't want the virus to follow me.

    I will plan on reinstalling any software from the original CD/DVD as needed.
  • ardichokeardichoke Icrontian
    edited August 2010
    michgal2k wrote:
    I am only going to back up files (documents & pictures). Move the old HD to the newer PC and install a new OS. When I install the new OS, it will ask me if I want to do a full reformat - I will say YES. Is that right or am I missing something? I just don't want the virus to follow me.

    This is correct.
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