Power off the computer
Unplug the power cable
Press the power button for a few seconds to discharge residual power
Open the desktop case
Ground yourself to prevent static discharge
Locate an available 2.5-inch drive bay or M.2 slot
If using a 2.5-inch SATA SSD, mount the SSD in the drive bay
Secure the SSD with screws or the tray mechanism
Connect a SATA data cable from the SSD to the motherboard
Connect a SATA power cable from the power supply to the SSD
If using an M.2 SSD, remove the M.2 slot screw
Insert the M.2 SSD at an angle into the slot
Press the SSD down and secure it with the M.2 screw
Close the computer case
Reconnect the power cable
Turn on the computer
Enter BIOS or UEFI if needed to confirm the SSD is detected
Open Disk Management in the operating system
Initialize the SSD if prompted
Create a new volume or partition
Format the SSD
Assign a drive letter
Install the operating system or move files as needed