If I change my hardrive on my computer do I need to buy an OS too?

Question

My computer tipped over and my hardrive is making a clicking noise. I want to replace it. Does this mean I need to install a new Operating system too?

Answer 1

If your hard drive is usuable, then the answer is No. You can download a free program from Maxtor which will enable you to make an exact duplicate copy of your hard drive. This program is called Maxblast. In order to do this, you will need to add the new hard drive to your system as a secondary hard drive. You may have to format the new hard drive. Make sure it is set up as a slave. Once installed, restart your computer. You should see in the "my computer" icon two hard drives. Run the maxblast program and find the tab labled "drive to drive copy" and copy the entire hard drive to the new hard drive. Once complete, shut down the computer. Remove the old hard drive and install the new hard drive in its place. Don't forget to make the new hard drive a master. Reboot; now you should be up and running.

Answer 2

The subject of the question asked buy a new OS and the details said install.

If you own a previous copy of an OS such as Windows XP, you don't need to buy a new copy, Just use your old Windows CD and the key provided as you install it on your new hard drive. You do however have to install a copy of windows on a new hard drive if you purchased the hard drive by itself (unless the hard-drive came pre-installed with an OS which i've never seen but is possible I guess :) )

Answer 3

Yes you will need to reinstall the OS (and all the other software as well) If you have the discs for your existing machine you can use those

Answer 4

Are you sure its the harddrive? It could be the fan on the inside that keeps the power supply cool.

Answer 5

if your new HD dont have OS, yes u have to install in it. if already then u dont need to