XPS 8300, adding an SSD , upgrading to Windows 10

I think there are a few options assuming Windows 7 is on the HDD:

1. Install the SSD, disconnect the HDD, boot the USB and fresh install Windows 10. Con: Need to re-install all your applications. Pro: Your HDD is your backup if things go south.

2. Install the SSD. clone the HDD to the SSD, disconect the HDD, boot, Windows 7 from the SSD, and run the Windows 10 setup program from the USB in your currently install and activated Windows 7. Pro: Will not need to re-install your applications and your HDD is your backup if things go south.

3. Boot Windows 7 from the HDD and run the Windows 10 setup program from the USB. Con: You will not have Windows 7 to fall back on if the upgrade goes south and you will need to clone the HDD to the SSD after the upgrade if you wish to use the SSD.

In all options, after Windows 10 is installed on the SSD, you will need to re-initilalize the HDD to use it as additional storage. If the HDD is the original HDD in your PC it is probably near the end of its useful life.

It appears that the upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 10 is still available for free. See this: https://www.zdnet.com/article/heres-how-you-can-still-get-a-free-windows-10-upgrade/

Me, I would remove the existing HDD and set it aside.  Install the new SSD.  Install Win10 on the SSD.  Install OEM drivers for any special devices.  Start using your new system.  After it has earned your confidence, install your old HDD as a second/backup drive and begin migrating (copy) your data to the system SSD.  At some point, format the HDD to wipe it clean for future use as your backup drive... and make a system image, setup your backup routine, and make a backup.

And keep progress notes until you're over the hump.

GK