On the computer with the SSD, go to www.crucial.com/clone to download the software that will copy your old drive to your new SSD. This software comes free with Crucial SSDs.

Open the file you downloaded and accept all of the prompts. A screen will then pop up. Click Install. After installation is complete, start the application.

You’ll now see several options in the software. Select the Clone Disk option. You’ll then be asked to select a clone mode. If you’ve never done this before, we recommend the Automatic method, then click the Next button.

Your “source” drive is your existing drive (disk). Select it by clicking on it, then click Next. Now select your “destination” drive (your new SSD) and click Next. On the following screen, click Proceed to start copying your data.

It’ll take a while for everything to copy, but the Acronis software will keep you updated on the progress.

When everything has copied over, you’ll need to tell your operating system to use your new SSD as the primary drive. This can be done by removing the old drive, which will force your system to use the new drive. Check your computer’s owner’s manual or contact the computer manufacturer for instructions on how to change the primary drive.

See how fast your favorite apps open when you click on them! Your SSD is installed, but you can make it even faster by enabling a special feature.