Sign Up for Microsoft Case Updates

Installing New Hard Drive Windows 10 Jun 2026

How to Install and Activate a Second Drive on a Windows 10 PC

The process begins with safety. Before opening the computer case, users must shut down the PC, unplug the power source, and ground themselves to prevent static discharge from damaging sensitive components. For a desktop, the new drive—whether a traditional Hard Disk Drive (HDD) or a faster Solid State Drive (SSD)—is secured into an internal drive bay using screws. installing new hard drive windows 10

Choose a letter (e.g., D:, E:) for the new drive. How to Install and Activate a Second Drive

Touch a metal part of the PC case to discharge any static electricity. users must shut down the PC