Chances are that newer computers will have this enabled by default. I can’t tell you exactly where the setting is, as each BIOS functions differently. To enable AHCI, you’ll have to enter the BIOS of your computer and enable it somewhere within its settings. The term “garbage collection” is used to describe the phenomenon that occurs when a drive gets rid of information that is no longer considered to be in use. The Advanced Host Controller Interface (AHCI) is a paramount feature for ensuring that Windows will support all of the features that come with running an SSD on your computer, especially the TRIM feature, which allows Windows to help the SSD perform its routine garbage collection. Unfortunately, these aren’t automated the process is irreversible and a bit more complex than, say, a software update.Įach SSD manufacturer has its own method for SSD firmware upgrades, so you’ll need to go to the official websites of your SSD manufacturers and follow their guides from there.Ī handy tool to assist you, however, is CrystalDiskInfo, which displays in-depth information about your disk, including the firmware version. To make sure your SSD is running as well as it can, it’s worth staying on top of firmware updates for it. What’s more, you need to know whether your M.2 connector is PCI-E (NVME) or SATA and make sure the M.2 SSD you is in the correct format. Or look up your motherboard online to make sure it has the M.2 connector. As a general rule, only more recent generations of motherboards have this connector, so if you have an older PC, you’re out of luck. Then there are the newer M.2 SSDs which connect to M.2 connectors on your motherboard. Of course, you need to have free SATA slots on your motherboard as well, but this shouldn’t be an issue unless you have many hard drives already.

SSDs don’t use a lot of energy, so it shouldn’t be an issue.

If not, you can always get a Y-splitter that allows two SSDs to connect to one molex power slot in your PSU. On a desktop PC, however, if you’re getting a SATA SSD drive, then you’ll need to make sure your power supply has enough spare slots or cables to accommodate the SATA cable connector.

Fresh windows install on new ssd