Installing 256GB SSD on new N56VZ which comes preinstalled with Windows8

Hi
This is a common problem for novices like myself and there seems to be a LOT of conflicting information online

I am proud owner of the N566VZ which comes preinstalled with Windows 8. I have a 256 SSD which I need to install.
There are no separate install disks for the OS.

I am not sure what the best method is to get Windows 8 onto the SSD.

Should I create recovery disks and then use those to re-install on the SSD?

Should I attempt cloning the HD to the SSD (I've read this doesn't always work well)

With a 256GB SSD, would it make sense to partition it roughly in half, use one half for apps and the other for data(which I would back up to an external)?

Any advice appreciated!

 

AFA the partitioning I would follow the recommendation in post 4 here http://forum.notebookreview.com/solid-state-drives-ssds-flash-storage/619685-ssd-provisioning.html. I have done a lot of research outside this forum and TilleroftheEarth explains provisioning very well. (Bottom line leave at least 50 GIG free 20%) then create the 2 partitions. IF you plan to install Win 8 and numerous applications 100 GIG for 1 partition and the remainder for data.

 

I've also read that cloning is not the best method. It can also be less convenient than it sounds, as you need to ensure the hard drive is aligned. With a clean install, you shouldn't have any issues; just back up your data and migrate it over to the SSD.

 

Also, Asus has a program called recovery burner.
Wondering if this can be used in place of a re-install of the OS.

So, (this is coming from a total novice)

1 First need to get my OEM version of Win8 onto some install DVD's or USB key

2 After installing my SSD, I should be able to reboot while pressing 'esc' and have the option to select my DVD drive

I proceed to install, assuming I will have the option to set up partitions(although partitions are somewhat meaningless with SSD I understand I need to leave at least 10-20% 'free' at all times.


Step 1 above is proving to be the most troublesome. I grabbed my OEM product key but this key cannot be used with the default retail version of Win8 to create an ISO.
So, not sure what to do next(and don't want to buy another non-Win 8 license)...

 

After many, many attempts the only way i found was to use a windows 8 dvd to install to the blank ssd. The pid is picked up from the bios/motherboard


Sent using Tapatalk

 

Yep, the serial key is embedded in the firmware and is part of the SLIC 3.0. This is a reoccurring issue with Asus since Windows 8 (seems most prevalent with their ultrabooks for some reason, too).

 

Ended up buying a (2nd) copy of Win 8, downloaded the ISO option.

Edited the ISO to add a ei.cfg file

Created a bootable USB flash drive

And then after a successful install, had to edit the registry to allow activation(Win 8 expected an existing earlier version of the OS to exist)

Several days of googling and cursing

Should have just spent an extra $100 and let the dealer do it for me

 

Did you use MifuneT's guide?? Wow, I'm pleased to hear that it worked (especially if it's the same workaround that he posted).

http://forum.notebookreview.com/asus/698920-installing-windows-8-pro-over-standard-oem-your-new-win8-certified-notebook.html

For what it's worth: You are not the only one to pull your hair out over the BIOS lock/embedded key!