How to Clone Windows to Another SSD/HDD Using Clonezilla
In this article, we will explain how to clone Windows from one hard drive to another SSD or HDD using the free application Clonezilla. We will show how to use Clonezilla for a complete system transfer, preserving boot files and all necessary partitions. This process is suitable for cases when the source disk is smaller than or equal in size to the target disk.
Step 1: Download Clonezilla
First, you need to download Clonezilla from the official website. When selecting the architecture, choose amd64 (even if you have an Intel processor). It is better to choose the ISO file format for creating a bootable flash drive.
You can also download Clonezilla from our server.
Step 2: Write Clonezilla to a Flash Drive
Write the ISO image to a flash drive using the Rufus application. If your system boots in Legacy mode, select the corresponding mode, and for UEFI, you need to disable Secure Boot in the BIOS before booting from the flash drive.
How to write an ISO image to a flash drive using Rufus can be read in our other article.
Step 3: Boot from the Flash Drive
Connect the flash drive with Clonezilla and restart the computer. Boot from the flash drive by selecting it in the BOOT Menu (usually F12 or Esc during startup). After booting, you will see a selection screen. Choose Clonezilla live and press Enter.
Step 4: Configure Clonezilla
1. After launch, select your language.
2. Leave the keyboard layout as default.
3. Next, select “Start Clonezilla” and press Enter.
4. In the next menu, choose “Disk to disk work” to clone one disk to another.
Step 5: Select Level of Settings
Clonezilla offers a choice of settings level: beginner or expert. It is recommended to choose the expert level to avoid issues with the Windows bootloader. Otherwise, you may need to manually restore the bootloader.
Step 6: Select Disks for Cloning
1. Select the disk from which the cloning will be performed (for example, disk 0).
2. Then select the target disk to which the cloning will be performed. Keep in mind that all data on the target disk will be erased.
Step 7: Configure Additional Parameters
1. Uncheck the option that affects the Windows bootloader using the spacebar.
2. Skip the check for restoring the original system file if you are confident in the integrity of the file system.
3. Leave the partition table unchanged — all partitions will be transferred as they are.
Step 8: Finish Settings and Start Cloning
1. Choose what to do after cloning is complete: restart the system, shut down the computer, etc.
2. Press Enter to start cloning.
Clonezilla will warn you that all data on the target disk will be erased. Type “y” to confirm and press Enter.
Step 9: Wait for Cloning to Complete
Wait for the cloning process to finish. This may take a considerable amount of time depending on the data volume and disk speeds. After completion, press Enter to continue.
Step 10: Reboot and Verify the Result
After cloning is complete, you can:
– Restart the computer and enter the BIOS to select the new disk as the primary boot device.
– Disconnect the original disk to boot only from the new disk.
Adjusting Partitions After Cloning
If the target disk is larger than the source, there may be unallocated space remaining. To utilize it:
1. Press Win + R, type diskmgmt.msc to open Disk Management.
2. Locate the unallocated space on the new disk and either create a new partition or extend an existing one.
Clonezilla is a powerful and free solution for cloning hard drives. With its help, you can easily transfer Windows to a new SSD or HDD, preserving all system files and settings. Although the application may seem complex, by following this guide, you will be able to successfully perform the cloning and configure the system to work from the new disk. Good luck!
