Before starting, be sure you have all your data-files backed up. Build it up lean from scratch, from a 'perfect copy of Windows-10 64 bit' foundation. Yes, a clean-Windows install (aka Nuke-and-Pave) is usually preferred (especially on a new computer with nothing really on it). In general, Cloning/Imaging can be tricky/finicky (especially if using some other software) so YMMV.Ģ. including pre-installed Dell software (ie SupportAssist), their 'heavier' driver suites, and Intel-RST (which I prefer to NOT use and never install). That facilitates connecting only the SSD (or drive to be C: ) and a 'bare-metal-restore' with Macrium Rescue flash-drive. You clone/image the whole physical drive (not just the C: partition). I prefer Imaging (with Verify After Creation ON) to external USB-HDD with Macrium Reflect. Yes, you can direct Clone or Image-to-File. In case of doing the raw install, what software am I missing from Alienware? Can I download it?ġ.

Do I need to format the factory HDD in this case so I can use it as additional storage?ģ. Do a raw install of Windows in the NVMe using a USB flash drive, and then change the bootable order in the BIOS. I read that this might hinder the performance of the NVMe because of driver-related stuff?Ģ. Copy the content from the existing Hard Drive into the new NVMe. I wish to add this to the machine as my main (bootable) hard drive.

Additionally, I have a 960 EVO M.2 NVMe from Samsung. I just got the Aurora R7 with only the 1TB Hard Drive. May this post serve as a reference, and also as a help for my case. I have been reading a lot in this forum about how to upgrade the Aurora with a M.2 NVMe and it looks like everyone does something different.

Macrium reflect clone boot drive