Can I copy my OS to another hard drive without having to validate again?

You cant.

After you install software, and with time and basic use, system files are replaced, corrupted, or updated.

There ARE methods to clone your drive. And you could clone it immediately after a fresh install and validation. I think 'Norton Ghost' does this type of thing. (there may be freeware available that does the same).

However you cannot undo the installations and modifications you have already made, reverting back to a 'clean' OS.

However, validation may keep note of the harddrive serial, and motherboard serials, or any of a dozen other unique computer part serials. Upon bootup, it checks these. If many have changed, it will request a new verification.

---- cant get on the drive, but NEED to?---

This may not sound desirable, but you can try a new FREE Operating system on your new hard drive. "Ubuntu" for example (competition with microsoft). You can install it on your new drive, and it may recognize your old drive, so you can then recover your files.

To do this, you would remove the current drive, and put in only your new drive. Then, insert the "Ubuntu" install disk, which would guide you through the process. Then after install, turn off, plug in your old drive, then boot up, and your old drive may show up and be accessible.

Yes. You will need a program such as ``Acronis True Image`` or ``Norton Ghost`` which can create an image of your hard drive which you can copy to any other hard drive.

yeah just make sure you're using a legit program and not trying to transfer the files over yourself. then it will work flawlessly.

No you have to validate it.