11 May How to Install an SSD

Need to know how to install an SSD?

We explain the simple step-by-step guide to SSD Installation

One of the most common questions we get asked is “how to install an SSD”? It’s not as difficult as you might think. Here we’ll explain in a step by step guide how to install an SSD as well as some tips for before you get going.

Before you start: Make sure your computer is off and the power is not plugged in. Also ensure that you’re grounded in some way to avoid generating static and damaging your motherboard. Usually a Static Discharge Cable connected to something metal will achieve this for you.

Step 1

When you’re looking at how to install an SSD, it’s important to know M2 or SATA (here is a quick explanation of M2 vs SARA SSDs). Both have their benefits and are installed in different ways. NVMe is faster and more recent and so such can be more. A SATA SSD will be faster than a regular HDD, but slower than M2. This is important to know as some older motherboards may not be compatible with the more recent M2 standard.

Step 2

Open up your desktop. Usually there will be a couple of little screws on the back of your computer that can be loosened up by hand. Once this is done and the screws stored safely nearby, you can slide the side off of your computer and see your motherboard.

Step 3

Find the slot on your motherboard for your M2 SSD. Sometimes there will be more than one so check your device manuals to confirm which is the best one for your particular SSD. If you have a slightly older motherboard, then likely you’re installing a SATA hard drive. In that case you need to find your SATA power and SATA data cables and plug them in. Make sure the cables run from your SSD to the SATA ports on your PC.

Step 4

Secure your SSD. With an M2, there should be a slot on the opposite end from what you’ve attached to your motherboard where you can use a small screw to secure your SSD in place. A phillips head screwdriver should do the trick, turn it until it’s secure but not too tight. For your SATA SSD, you may be fine with it simply being in the case, however if possible it may be a good idea to secure it if you can to one of the hard drive brackets in your PC.

Step 5

With everything set up and secured, put the side of your computer’s case back on and screw it in. Turn it on, and test it out.

With your newly installed SSD you should hopefully be noticing some significant improvements in speed over your HDD.

That is how to install an SSD. If you’ve found this interesting, please feel free to check out some of our other articles such as the difference between RAM and hard drives.

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