How to Install M.2 Ssd in Old Desktop? 12 Steps!

To install an M.2 SSD in an old desktop, you will need an M.2 SSD, a compatible adapter card, and a screwdriver.

Next, insert the SSD into the adapter card, secure it with a screw, and fit the adapter card into an available PCI Express slot in your desktop. Install the necessary drivers, and you are ready to go.

Most old desktops do not have a built-in M.2 slot, necessitating the use of an adapter card. These cards are affordable and easy to install.

They convert your PCI Express slot into an M.2 slot, enabling you to use the latest SSDs. After installing the hardware, you must also install the necessary drivers for the SSD to function correctly.

Installing an M.2 SSD in an old desktop can significantly improve its performance. M.2 SSDs are faster and more reliable than traditional hard drives, providing quicker boot times, reduced game load times, and smoother overall performance.

However, since most older desktops lack a built-in M.2 slot, you’ll need an adapter card to make this upgrade.

Step-by-Step Guide: Installing M.2 SSD in an Old Laptop

What You’Ll Need

Are you tired of your old desktop slowing down your work efficiency? If so, installing an m. 2 ssd could help your computer run faster. We will provide an easy-to-follow guide on how to install an m. 2 ssd in your old desktop computer.

M.2 Ssd

Before we start, let’s understand what an m. 2 ssd is. It is a compact and fast storage device that connects to your desktop motherboard’s m. 2 slot. By connecting the m. 2 ssd to your computer, it will work faster and more efficiently.

Here’s what you need to know to successfully install an m. 2 ssd:

• Determine whether your desktop computer motherboard has an m.2 slot. If it doesn’t, you’ll need to use a different ssd type.
• Purchase an m.2 ssd, making sure it matches your motherboard’s compatibility.

Screwdriver (Size May Vary)

A screwdriver is necessary to install your m. 2 ssd. You’ll need to move the screw that secures the ssd to the motherboard. The screwdriver size may vary depending on your computer.

Here are the steps to take:

• Locate the m.2 slot and remove the screw if required.
• Insert the m.2 ssd into the slot and screw it back into place.

User Manual For Your Motherboard

Before starting the installation process, it is essential to read the motherboard’s user manual. The manual will give you a comprehensive guide to installing the m. 2 ssd and prevent you from making mistakes.

Here are some crucial details covered by the user manual:

• Identification of the m.2 slot location
• Compatibility of the motherboard and m.2 ssd
• Steps for installation and configuration

Anti-Static Wrist Strap (Optional)

An anti-static strap isn’t necessary, but it’s a helpful tool to prevent static electricity from damaging your computer components. If you want to use one, connect it to your wrist while working on your desktop.

To sum up, installing an m. 2 ssd in your old desktop computer can be a game-changer in improving your computer’s efficiency and speed.

By following these simple steps and precautions, you’ll have a faster and more reliable computer in no time!

Preparing Your Desktop

Turn Off Your Computer And Unplug It From The Power Source

When installing an m. 2 ssd, it’s crucial to ensure that your desktop is powered off and unplugged from its power source. Doing so will avoid any potential electrical damage to your computer and keep you safe from accidental electric shocks.

Follow these steps to prepare your desktop safely:

• Close all running applications and save your work.
• Power off your computer from the start menu.
• Once your computer has shut down properly, unplug the power cord from the wall socket.

Open The Computer Case

Once you’ve powered off your desktop and unplugged it from the power source, you need to open the computer case.

You’ll need to ensure that you’re using the right tools and techniques for the job, so follow these steps to make your task easier:

• Leave your computer to cool down for a few minutes before starting.
• Wear an anti-static wristband or touch a metal surface before handling any computer components.
• Use a screwdriver to remove all screws on the back and side panels of the computer case. These screws usually hold the case on the chassis.
• Gently slide the side panel to open the case.

Locate The Storage Bays And Identify Your Primary Storage Device

Before installing your m. 2 ssd, you’ll need to identify the storage bays in your desktop. Generally, these bays are situated in the lower part of the tower.

Once you’ve found the storage bays, identify your primary storage device. This could be an hdd or an ssd that already contains your operating system.

Here are the steps to follow:

• Look inside your desktop case to locate the storage bays. They are often easy to identify.
• Identify your primary storage device. It’s usually the drive that contains your operating system and your important data.
• Take note of how the storage device is connected to your motherboard. You might need to unplug cords to install the m.2 ssd.
• You can look up your motherboard model and brand online to identify the exact location of the m.2 slot.

Plan The M.2 Ssd Installation Location

Selecting a location for your m. 2 ssd is vital before installation; you’ll need to check that the chosen spot is available, secure, and in line with your motherboard’s regulations. An m. 2 ssd requires a compatible slot on your motherboard.

Here are the steps to keep in mind:

• Check if your motherboard supports m.2 ssd installation. You can refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for this.
• Locate the m.2 slot on your motherboard. It’s usually located somewhere near the storage bays.
• Plan where you want to install the m.2 ssd on the motherboard.
• Refer to the motherboard manufacturer’s instructions to make sure that you’re installing the m.2 ssd correctly to avoid any damage.

Now that you’ve gone through the steps for preparing your desktop, you’re ready to install your m. 2 ssd. Make sure that you have all the necessary tools and instructions before beginning the installation process.

With patience and proper handling, you can ensure that your desktop computer will be upgraded with an m. 2 ssd in no time.

Installing The M.2 Ssd

Install The M.2 Ssd Into The Designated M.2 Slot

Installing an m. 2 ssd into an old desktop is a great way to boost performance and speed up your computer. However, before you start, you need to ensure that your old desktop has an m. 2 slot.

Once you are sure that your pc has an m. 2 slot, follow the steps below to install the m. 2 ssd:

• Locate the m.2 slot on your motherboard. The m.2 slot is usually located near the cpu socket or the ram slots
• Remove the protective cover from the m.2 slot
• Carefully insert the m.2 ssd into the m.2 slot at a 30-degree angle
• Apply gentle pressure to the m.2 ssd until it clicks into place
• Do not forget to fasten the screw that holds the m.2 ssd in place

Secure The M.2 Ssd With The Appropriate Screw

It is essential to secure the m. 2 ssd with the appropriate screw to prevent any damage or movement that may affect the performance of your computer.

Here is how to do this:

• Use a screwdriver to secure the m.2 ssd with the appropriate screw
• Be careful not to overtighten the screw as it may damage the m.2 ssd or the motherboard

Adjust The Motherboard Settings Via Bios

After installing the m. 2 ssd, you need to adjust the motherboard settings via bios to select the m. 2 ssd as the primary boot device.

Follow the steps below:

• Restart your computer and enter the bios by pressing the appropriate key (usually f2 or del)
• Find the boot option and change it to the m.2 ssd
• Save the changes and exit the bios

Close The Computer Case

Finally, it is time to close the computer case and ensure that everything is secure before starting your computer.

Follow the steps below to do this:

• Carefully place the cover on the computer case
• Make sure that all the screws are back in place
• Ensure that all cables are plugged in and not loose
• Turn on your computer to see if the m.2 ssd has been recognized
• Enjoy a faster and more efficient computer!

Setting Up Your M.2 Ssd

Installing an m. 2 ssd on your old desktop is a game changer when it comes to boosting your computer’s performance. After purchasing an m. 2 ssd, you need to follow some simple steps to get it set up.

In this section, we’ll guide you through the process of initializing, formatting, and cloning your m. 2 ssd, as well as setting it as the primary boot device.

Initialize The M.2 Ssd Via Disk Management:

Before formatting your m. 2 ssd, you must initialize it.

Follow the steps below to initialize your m. 2 ssd via disk management:

• Right-click on the start button and select disk management from the list.
• Locate the m.2 ssd from the list of disks and right-click on it.
• Select “initialize disk” from the menu.
• Choose the appropriate partition style: Mbr or gpt (we recommend gpt if your system is running on uefi).
• Click ok to initialize the disk.

Format The M.2 Ssd:

After initializing the m. 2 ssd, the next step is to format it.

Here’s how to do it:

• Right-click on the initialized m.2 ssd and select “new simple volume.”
• A “new simple volume wizard” will appear; click next.
• Choose the disk size you want to allocate to the new volume, and select “no” for the compression option.
• Assign a drive letter to the new volume and format the disk using the “ntfs” file system.

Clone Your Operating System And Data Onto The M.2 Ssd:

Once you’ve formatted your m. 2 ssd, the next step is to clone your operating system and data onto it.

Follow these steps to clone your system:

• Download and install cloning software, such as easeus todo backup, aomei backupper, or macrium reflect.
• Connect the destination m.2 ssd via a usb enclosure or sata to usb adapter.
• Launch the cloning software, select the source disk (your original hard drive), and destination disk (m.2 ssd).
• Choose the cloning mode (system clone or disk clone) and start the clone process.
• Once the cloning process is completed, shut down your system.

Set The M.2 Ssd As The Primary Boot Device:

The final step is to set the m. 2 ssd as the primary boot device.

Follow these steps to do it:

• Power up your computer and press the bios/uefi setup key (f2, f10, f12, or del) to enter the bios/uefi settings.
• Navigate to the boot tab and locate the “boot order” or “boot priority” option.
• Move the m.2 ssd to the top of the boot order.
• Save the changes and exit the bios/uefi settings.
• Finally, restart your system to ensure it boots from the m.2 ssd.

Congratulations! You have successfully set up your m. 2 ssd on your old desktop. Enjoy the much-improved performance!

FAQ About Installing M.2 Ssd In Old Desktop

Conclusion

As we conclude our guide on how to install m. 2 ssd in an old desktop, we hope that you have found this information useful and informative. We understand that upgrading an old desktop can be quite daunting, but with the right guidance, it can be a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Upgrading to an m. 2 ssd is a great way to improve your olddesktop’s performance, speed, and storage capacity. Remember to follow the steps carefully and exercise caution to avoid damaging any components.

With proper installation, your old desktop can run like new and give you a whole new computing experience. So, go ahead and upgrade your old desktop with an m. 2 ssd and enjoy faster boot times, faster application launch, and better overall performance.