

For example, when adding a new larger or faster hard disk or SSD drive to an existing PC, the existing drive’s contents can be copied over to this new disk and kept exactly as they were beforehand.


Such disk cloning software is especially useful when adding new or upgraded hard disks or SSD drives to an existing PC. Making an exact copy of a disk means that all existing data on the original (source) hard drive including the operating system, any installed applications, system settings plus all existing user data is also copied across to the new hard disk during the process. If you're having problems seeing your drive, make sure you check out our troubleshooting guide on how to fix an external hard drive that won't show up.Disk Cloning software is specialist software which can be used to create an exact (1:1) copy of a computer’s hard drive which is then replicated to a secondary (often bigger or faster) hard drive. You can find out how to install and connect your drive using the manufacturer's instructions. The first step is to ensure you have your new disk or drive installed in or connected to your computer. Read on for detailed instructions regarding each step.ġ. Ensure the new drive is installed in or connected to your computer.īut if you're only cloning a single drive one time, it's probably better to go with the free option, right? How to clone a hard drive on Windows This app offers all the basic functionality you'll need if your goal is to simply clone one hard drive to another, though there are a number of paid apps with more advanced features such as quicker cloning speeds, including O&O DiskImage (opens in new tab) and Acronis Cyber Protect Home Office (opens in new tab). The software we would recommend using when cloning drives is Macrium Reflect Free (opens in new tab), which, as its name suggests, doesn't cost a cent.
