Migrating program files from 1 OS partition to another

[RedString]

This is my first post here so hello everybody! And thanks before hand for any replies.

I've installed another copy of Windows 7 in partition A: and I'm looking to move my Program Files (especially games) from C: to this new partition.
Previously whenever I've re-installed Windows 7, moving the Program Files for games has not worked and has required a clean install into the new Windows.

So my question is: Is there any way for me to move these files to the new A: partition without requiring me to reinstall the programs?

It's always such a hassle downloading all those patches again :\

 

[Anteaus]

Check out this thread this topic was more or less talked about recently.

http://forums.anandtech.com/showthread.php?t=2145392

It might be possible for some of it, conditionally. However, it's probably better that you just reinstall everything as you go. Far less headaches that way.

 

[RedString]

Check out this thread this topic was more or less talked about recently.

http://forums.anandtech.com/showthread.php?t=2145392

It might be possible for some of it, conditionally. However, it's probably better that you just reinstall everything as you go. Far less headaches that way.

Eh, I was afraid of that.

I suppose it would be best to just have everything be fresh anyways.


What if I was to load off the A: Windows 7, would I be able to delete the windows from C: and still run programs from the C: Program Files?

I figure I would still be loaded on the A: Win7 registry so probably not.


Lets say, for a game like League of Legends where there is no activation.
Theoretically, I can just send the files over, then copy the registry data from C: to the A: Win7, as long as everything is in the same place.

As long as there is no random files that is needed in other areas, this will work right?

 

[Anteaus]

Eh, I was afraid of that.

I suppose it would be best to just have everything be fresh anyways.


What if I was to load off the A: Windows 7, would I be able to delete the windows from C: and still run programs from the C: Program Files?

I figure I would still be loaded on the A: Win7 registry so probably not.


Lets say, for a game like League of Legends where there is no activation.
Theoretically, I can just send the files over, then copy the registry data from C: to the A: Win7, as long as everything is in the same place.

As long as there is no random files that is needed in other areas, this will work right?

Well, just copying the game directory might work. Its just unlikely. Some games are portable, some aren't. It's usually not worth the battle though. Easier (though not shorter) to just backup your saved games and clean install everything. Like I recommended on the other thread, once you clean install everything, make a proper disc image to avoid it in the future.