How do I transfer my OS to a SSD?

I am going to be upgrading my RAM and installing a SSD in the next few months, but exactly how do I transfer my OS? I have a 2 TB hard drive that is by no means full, but I really just want to transfer my OS. I don't think I have my Windows Instalation discs since I got it for free through my school so a fresh install could be out of the question. What are my options?

Depending on the SSD some comes with Mirroring software which allows you to transfer the OS over. there is some Work required after that ofcourse, seeing as the hardware the OS needs to get retold what hardware it is running although if on the SSD and RAM are new, there is not a Whole lot there to fix or after.

If it does not come with mirroring software, I would suggest buying some, as that is likely the best bet.

Apparently it comes with Acronis True Imaging HD. I work for an IT company and we use an older version of Acronis which is very reliable. Hopefully I will have all the tools I need to make this happen. My PC is going to scream!

Fresh install is what most recommended to prevet many failures

@PredatorRules:

Easier said than done, most of the time a fresh install isnt possible. I don't think I have my Windows software anymore, but I can check.

I keep my OS install on my flash drive

Can't you just DL a program to grab your serial key and then download Windows from Microsoft's site?

It's not hard to google solutions:

http://lifehacker.com/5837543/how-to-migrate-to-a-solid-state-drive-without-reinstalling-windows

It shouldn't be too hard so long as the used space on the old hard drive doesn't exceed the capacity of the SSD.

What he said. Fresh install is always the best on a brand new SSD. I wouldn't consider doing anything else and there is no excuse to do otherwise. Find your cd-key, ask Microsoft for help if you have trouble.

So I found the Windows 8.1 Image and I have it stored on an external HDD. I also located my product key so it appears that I am set, however, once I install Windows 8.1 on my SSD, what happens to the Windows on my 2TB HDD? I heard you can somehow deactivate it, but I do not know if this is true. Thanks!

You have to wipe all traces of that Win 8.1 install from the 2Tb hard drive. I prefer to use a Linux Live CD for the repartition/reformat part. Luckily I have a spare PC I can use to do that with.

I also have an external enclosure that use SATA hard drives. I could put the old hard drive in it, connect it to a PC that is already booted up and erase/reformat the old hard drive.

What you should avoid at all costs is have the hard drive with the old Windows 8.1 install boot up.

yes, I can vouch for this statement, it ****ed up my perfectly new Samsung 840 EVO.