fordad.md

For Dad

This guide assumes dad.

Checklist

• Backup important folders & files
• Retrieve your Windows license key
• Deregister the Windows license key
• Create a Windows 10 installation USB drive
• Install the SSD (SN850X) in the M.2 slot
• Configure BIOS (AHCI mode)
• Configure BIOS (USB -> SSD boot order)
• Boot from the Windows 10 USB drive and install Windows
• Activate Windows using the saved license key
• Upgrade to Windows 11

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1. Backup Your PC

a) Important Files

• Copy your important files to a USB drive.

b) License Key

• Press Win key, type “cmd”, right-click on Command Prompt, and select "Run as administrator".
• Get Windows 10 Product Key:

wmic path softwarelicensingservice get OA3xOriginalProductKey

• Uninstall Windows 10 Product Key:

slmgr /upk

• Remove Windows 10 Product Key from the Registry

slmgr /cpky

2. Create bootable Windows 10 USB

a) Download the Tool

• Go to the Windows 10 download page and download the Media Creation Tool.

b) Create the USB Drive

• Use a different USB drive than the one used for backup.
• Run the tool and follow the prompts to create a Windows 10 installation USB drive.

3. Install new SSD (SN850X) in Adam’s PC

a) Remove Existing Drives and Install the SSD

• Disconnect and remove any existing drives that need to be replaced or removed.
• Insert the SN850X SSD into the M.2 slot and secure it with the provided screw.
• The M.2 slots are behind sinks:

4. Configure BIOS

• Enter BIOS by pressing Del or F2 at startup.
• Navigate to the Boot section and ensure the M.2 SSD is recognized.
• Enable AHCI mode for better SSD performance:
  • Go to Advanced > SATA Configuration > Set SATA Mode Selection to AHCI.
• Set the boot order to USB -> SSD -> Whatever else
• Save changes and exit BIOS.

5. Install Windows 10

a) Install Windows

• Follow the on-screen instructions to install Windows 10 from the bootable USB drive.
• Make sure you're installing on the new SSD drive (SN850X).
• Use the key you saved earlier to activate Windows.

6. Upgrade to Windows 11

a) Check for Updates

• Go to "Settings" > "Update & Security" > "Windows Update".

b) Upgrade

• Follow the prompts to upgrade to Windows 11 if available.