A hard disk (hard drive) is a storage device that a computer uses to store the operating system, software, and files. Maybe you want to install a new hard drive in your computer to increase storage space or replace an old hard drive that has been damaged. This wikiHow teaches you how to install a hard drive on a computer or laptop.
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Method 1 of 2: Installing a Hard Disc on a Desktop Computer
Step 1. Make sure you are handling a Windows computer
While it's technically possible to replace the hard drive on an iMac computer, this is difficult to do and can void the warranty. On the other hand, you can tinker with a Windows computer with relative ease.
If you want to install a hard drive on your Mac, you can take it to an Apple professional and leave the work to them
Step 2. Back up computer data
Before removing an old hard drive from your computer, back up the data stored on it so that you can restore it later.
If you want to keep the old hard drive installed, try adding a second hard drive
Step 3. Make sure you can install the hard disk on the computer
Before buying a new hard drive for your computer, make sure that you can actually install a hard drive into your computer. If you want to install a second hard drive in your desktop computer, make sure that there is still an empty slot on the computer to install an additional hard drive. If you are using an all-in-one monitor computer, make sure that the hard disk that is in the monitor can be replaced.
Step 4. Purchase a hard drive that is compatible with your computer's motherboard
On modern computers, the most common type of hard drive used is SATA, although many newer motherboards support M.2 SSD hard drives, which are much smaller and often faster than SATA (if both the hard drive and motherboard support NVMe).
- There are two sizes of SATA hard drives. 3.5 inch (9 cm) SATA hard disks are used in most desktop computers. 2.7 inch (7 cm) SATA hard disks are commonly used in all-in-one monitor computers.
- M.2 SSD hard disks are available in a variety of sizes. The size is coded with a 4-digit number. For example, a 2280 M.2 hard drive means it measures 22x80 mm, and a device coded 2260 M.2 means it measures 22x60 mm. To install an M.2 SSD, check the motherboard for M.2 connector slots, and find out what SSD sizes the motherboard supports. The most commonly used size on desktop computers is 2280. Also check to see if the M.2 connector slot on the computer has an M or B lock slot. An M.2 SSD hard disk with an M lock slot does not match the B lock connector. Check the motherboard manual and make sure the M.2 SSD hard drive you buy is compatible with your computer's motherboard.
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SSD (Solid State Drive) hard disk vs. HDD (Hard Disk Drive):
HDD is a mechanical hard disk. These hard disks are generally slower, but inexpensive. SSD has no moving parts (no moving parts). SSD hard disks are much faster, quieter, and more expensive. You can also buy a hybrid HDD/SSD hard drive.
Step 5. Turn off the computer, then unplug the power cord
You can turn off the computer by clicking the Start icon, then clicking the power icon in the Start menu. Shut down the computer by clicking Shut Down. Another way is to press and hold the power button on the laptop keyboard or on the desktop computer case. Unplug the cable that is connected to the power source to remove any remaining electricity in the computer's electronic devices.
Step 6. Remove the panel on the computer case
You will most likely have to use a plus screwdriver to do this. Remove the side panel on the computer case. Some computers also require you to remove the panels on both sides of the case.
Step 7. Connect the body to ground
This is useful for preventing static electric shock that can damage components inside the computer. You can do this by touching a metal object while working, or buying a static wristband and wearing it while working inside your computer.
Step 8. Remove the old hard drive
If you are removing an old hard drive, make sure you have unplugged all cables from the power supply and motherboard. If the hard drive is screwed to the motherboard, use a screwdriver to remove all the screws.
You may have to remove some cards or cables to access the hard drive that is placed in the cramped case
Step 9. Move the hard drive enclosure to the new hard drive (if applicable)
Some computers use an enclosure (a device or case used to protect and connect a hard drive to the computer) to secure the hard drive. If there is an enclosure on the computer hard drive, remove all screws and remove the old hard drive. Insert the new hard drive into the enclosure and replace the screws.
Step 10. Insert a new hard disk
Place the hard drive in the old hard drive slot, or another slot if you are adding a new hard drive.
Step 11. Tighten the hard disk
Once installed, secure the hard drive to the computer case with screws. We recommend that you use 2 screws for each side of the hard drive. Loose hard disks will crackle and make noise that can physically damage them.
Tighten the screws well, but don't overdo it as this can also damage the hard drive
Step 12. Connect the new hard drive to the motherboard
The new hard disks use a SATA cable, which is thin and similar to a USB cable. Connect the new hard drive to the motherboard with a SATA cable. You can plug the SATA cable back and forth (not just one way).
- To install an M.2 SSD hard drive, insert the SSD into the M.2 slot at a 30-degree angle. Next, press the other end of the SSD and secure it to the motherboard using screws.
- If you want to connect the primary hard drive, plug the SATA cable into the first SATA channel. This first channel can be labeled SATA0 or SATA1. Check the motherboard manual for details.
Step 13. Connect the power supply to the hard disk
Most new power supplies have a SATA power connector, but older power supplies only provide a Molex connector (4 pins). If the power supply does not have a SATA connector, and the hard drive to be installed is a SATA type, purchase a Molex to SATA adapter.
Check for loose cables by shaking them gently
Step 14. Close the computer case
Attach the side of the case, and re-plug the disconnected cable in case you have to move the computer case to handle the inside.
Step 15. Plug the power cord into a power source and turn on the computer
The sound of the hard disk spinning will begin to sound.
If you hear a beep or a roar, quickly shut down the computer and check the hard drive connection
Step 16. Install the operating system
The new hard disk must have an operating system installed before the computer can be used again.
Method 2 of 2: Installing Hard Disc on Laptop
Step 1. Back up the data on the laptop
If you want to replace your laptop's hard drive, first back up the data on your hard drive so you can restore it later to a new hard drive.
Step 2. Make sure you can add or replace the hard disk on the laptop
Before buying a new hard drive for your laptop, check the user manual or open the laptop to see if you can replace or add a second hard drive. Most laptops do not provide an additional slot for a second hard drive. On some newer laptops, the hard drive may be soldered in place and/or not replaceable.
Step 3. Purchase a hard drive that fits your laptop model
Most newer laptops and computers use SATA hard drives. Look for a hard drive that matches your laptop model, then buy the hard drive you want. Most laptops use a 2.7-inch (7 cm) SATA hard drive. Some newer laptops use M.2 SSDs, which are much faster and smaller than SATA hard drives.
- M.2 SSD hard disks are available in a variety of sizes. The size is coded with a 4-digit number. For example, a 2280 M.2 hard drive means it measures 22x80 mm, and a device coded 2260 M.2 means it measures 22x60 mm. To install an M.2 SSD, check the motherboard for M.2 connector slots, and find out what SSD sizes the motherboard supports. The most commonly used size on desktop computers is 2280. Also check to see if the M.2 connector slot on the laptop has an M or B lock slot. An M.2 SSD hard disk with an M lock slot does not match the B lock connector. Check the motherboard manual and make sure the M.2 SSD hard drive you buy is compatible with your computer's motherboard.
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SSD vs hard drive HDDs:
HDD is a mechanical hard disk. These hard disks are generally slower, but inexpensive. SSD has no moving parts. SSD hard disks are much faster, quieter, and more expensive. You can also buy a hybrid HDD/SSD hard drive.
Step 4. Turn off the laptop
Disconnect the charging cable connected to the laptop, then press and hold the power button until the laptop turns off. You can also use the power settings to turn off the laptop:
- Windows - Click the Start menu, click the power icon, then click Shut down.
- Mac - Click the Apple icon in the menu bar, click Shutdown…, then select Shut Down when requested.
Step 5. Turn the laptop over
Close the laptop, then flip it over so that the bottom is on top.
Step 6. Remove the bottom of the laptop
The method will vary depending on the laptop you're using, but generally you'll need to use a screwdriver to remove it. Slide a plastic scribe on the edge of the panel, then carefully pry it around the entire edge.
- Many laptops require a special screwdriver, such as a pentalobe or three-wing screwdriver, to open the case.
- Some laptops, like Macs, require you to remove some of the screws found around the edges of the case.
- Be careful with cables or ribbons attached to the motherboard on the bottom panel. If there are ribbons or cables, note where the ribbons or cables are attached, then carefully remove them.
Step 7. Connect the body to ground
This is useful for preventing static electric shocks that harm the laptop's internal components that are easily damaged. You can do this by touching the metal or buying a static wrist strap and wearing it while working with the computer.
Step 8. Remove the battery whenever possible
Most laptops are removable. This is to prevent accidental electric shock when the hard drive is installed.
Step 9. Open the hard drive panel (if any)
In some laptops, the hard drive is housed in a special panel. This panel is marked with a hard disk logo placed next to it. You may have to use a small plus screwdriver to remove the screws and panels.
Step 10. Remove the screws on the hard drive
Depending on your laptop, the hard drive may be secured with screws. Remove all screws securing the laptop.
Step 11. Eject the existing hard disk if necessary
Slide the hard drive out of the port where it is plugged in. There may be a retractable latch or tape to remove the hard drive. The hard disc will be pushed out by about two centimeters, which will allow you to pull it out of the case.
- You may also need to remove the cable plugged into the hard drive.
- It's a good idea to place your old hard drive in a safe location in case you want to retrieve the data stored on it later.
Step 12. Move the hard drive enclosure to the new hard drive (if applicable)
Some computers use special enclosures to protect the hard drive. If there is an enclosure on the laptop hard drive, remove all the screws and remove the old hard drive. Insert the new hard drive into the enclosure and replace the screws.
Step 13. Insert a new hard disk
Insert the hard drive with the correct side facing out. After that, firmly press the hard drive into the connector. Do not apply excessive pressure as the connector may be damaged.
- If you have to unscrew to remove the old hard drive, replace the screws.
- To install an M.2 SSD hard drive, insert the SSD into the M.2 slot at a 30-degree angle, then press the other end of the SSD. Secure the SSD position on the motherboard using screws.
Step 14. Re-plug all cables that have been unplugged
If you disconnected any cables that were plugged into the old hard drive, plug the cables into the new hard drive.
Step 15. Close the laptop again
Replace the bottom of the case and all the screws in their original place.
If you have to remove the cable or ribbon in order to remove the bottom panel, be sure to plug it back in before you close the laptop
Step 16. Install the operating system
The new hard disk must have an operating system installed before the computer can be used again.
Tips
- Hard discs generate heat when used. If your computer has multiple hard drive bays, place the hard drive in the middle of the free space to keep the computer cool when in use.
- Be careful of static electricity when working with the internal components of your computer. You can use an antistatic wrist strap or touch the screw on the cover of the active light switch to ground the body before you touch the components and cables inside the computer.
