How To Replace A Hard Drive?

How do you replace a hard disk in your desktop computer? This guide is written for people with basic technical skills, and it will help you to remove the old hard drive, install and connect the new one, and transfer all your data.

Is your personal computer experiencing technical issues due to hard drive collapse? If so, you will need to replace or repair it before the issue worsens. In fact, replacing it immediately or as early as possible will allow you to secure your files and other essential data stored in it before it’s too late.

After all, when the hard drive completely fails or wears out, you might no longer be able to recover the lost data. Although this can be a more complex task than other types of repairs, you can still perform it on your own.

With that said, with the help of the complete guide below, you’ll be able to do it yourself and save your money. Moreover, the steps mentioned below apply to both swapping out outdated hard drives and replacing defective ones.

Back up the stored data

Backing up all stored data is essential, especially if you don’t want to lose any critical files. So, before doing anything that involves the hard drive, you should back up every single folder that contains the following:

• Programs
• Downloadable content
• Games
• Playlists or music files
• Video files and pictures
• Documents

Of course, you can also choose to exclude those you no longer want to keep. With that said, using cloud storage to back up your files can be an excellent choice. After all, one of the advantages of using cloud storage is that you can access your files and data anytime, anywhere.

So, as long as you have an internet connection, you’ll have access to your essential files, and you no longer have to worry about hauling around or bringing external drives wherever you go. Moreover, CDs and USBs aren’t the safest alternatives to built-in drives because you can misplace them anytime.

With that said, one example of a cloud storage solution is Google Drive. In this case, to access Google Drive follow the steps below:

• Open Google Chrome browser.
• Click on the Options button on the upper right side of the page.

• Then, select “Drive.”

• Click “My Drive,” located at the upper left part of the page below the search bar.
• After this, select “Upload files.” However, if you wish to upload an entire folder, click “Upload folder.”

Google Drive will start uploading your files to its servers, so after this, you have safely backed up your files already.

Make your recovery disc

Once you have backed up all your files, the next step is to create a recovery disc. Overall, it’s best if you created your recovery disc to install Windows OS again. Your computer will use this recovery disc to optimize the new drive after it is installed.

However, ensure that you have enough space available in your storage drive or disc and that it’s formatted according to the operating system’s directions.

Remove your computer’s old drive

Then, you can now remove your computer’s old hard drive. However, it’s best to make sure that the computer is shut down and unplugged before doing so. In addition, it’s also advisable to utilize an anti-static wristband and mat.

This will ground you and the computer so that you won’t transfer built-in static energy into the delicate internal components of the computer. Once you’re done, you can follow these steps:

• Open the computer’s case door. Tiny screws often seal this.
• After you and your computer are grounded safely, proceed to locate its hard drive.
• Next, remove the data connectors and power cables from their drive. 
• After this, carefully pull out its hard drive in a sliding motion.
• Then, place your new hard drive by reversing the performed steps.
• Next, plug the data and power connector cords according to the documentation of your new drive.
• Lastly, reinstall the computer’s operating system, files, and programs.

Summary: Replace a Hard Drive

• Open your computer's case.
• Locate the hard drive you're replacing.
• Ground yourself.
• Disconnect your old hard drive.
• Remove your old hard drive.
• Install your new hard drive.
• Connect your new hard drive.

Conclusion

Now that you can have your operating system work on its new drive, you may now start restoring the files you transferred to Google Drive back to your computer.

Of course, the external drive or cloud backup must be accessed through a recommended software. Then, you can simply pick those files you wish to restore. After this, you’re good to go.