Windows 10: Can I recover my OS after replacing my HDD with SSD?

I'm planning to buy a new SSD for my laptop since the HDD is now failing way beyond any help and I have to resort to buying a new one. The problem is that I did not have time to back up some files and I did not manage to create a bootable installation disc or USB drive. My laptop has a built in OS so I do not have I think a product key with me. I also can't remember if I have linked my account to my license.

:)

 

OS on new SSD, keep existing data on HDD and use as external drive

Hi,

use steps you suggested, there should be no problem.

Just replace HDD with SSD first then run installation. Do not forget to remove Windows files from HDD after the end of a process.

 

Clean install of windows 11 on SSD (current OS on HDD)

I am planing to install a SSD in my laptop, which already has HDD. laptop support SSD and HDD together. The currest OS on the HDD and i want to do a fresh install on the SSD, Please can anyone write a step by step guide on what to do, i am not confident on this.

 

OS on new SSD, keep existing data on HDD and use as external drive

I want to use a new SSD to run my OS on my PC. I have a lot of data on my HDD and dont want it on the SSD but do want to keep it.

I have read that you shouldn't use an external drive that has Windows installed so how would i go about doing what I need?

I.e. get Windows onto the SSD, replace HDD with SSD, use HDD as external drive, and keep data from HDD on HDD.

Thanks!

(P.s. any guides or instructions to any steps would be great but if not then no issue)