It is possible to transfer files between computers quickly and securely without losing any data.
Few things in life can match the excitement of getting a powerful new PC that lets you quickly switch tasks, run new apps, and play games at blazing speed. But it's just as depressing to realize that you have to move all your music, pictures, documents and other files from your old computer to your new computer.
Luckily, you won't have to beg your friends or trick them with gifts for this move. There are various ways to share files easily and securely, and even move programs from your old computer to your new one, while keeping your data safe.
The DIY Approach: Transferring Files Manually
If you're a practical person, one of the easiest ways to upload all your files to your new computer is to do a manual transfer. You can do this in several ways.
First, plug a USB stick or external hard drive into your old computer. Prices range from $30 to hundreds of dollars, depending on storage capacity, speed, and the functions you need. Copy your files to the external drive, remove the storage device and plug it into the new computer, and download the files to the computer by reversing the process. Tip: Some computers have eSATA ports designed for external hard drives that move data faster than USB ports.
If you don't want to buy an external hard drive, you can store your files in the cloud using internet-based storage services such as Microsoft OneDrive*, Google Drive* or Dropbox*. Again, simply drag and drop your files from your old computer to the cloud service and then drag and drop these files to your new computer. These services, which are usually free for small amounts of storage, may require a monthly subscription fee if your storage needs increase.
Let's Speed Up Things: Using a Jumper Cable
If you find storage in the cloud takes time or you don't want to pay monthly subscription fees to cloud services, you can choose the option to move your files with a transfer cable. The cable plugs into the ports on your old and new computer. These types of cables are often bundled with software that automatically transfers files when switching from an old Windows® 10, 8.1, 8. 7, Vista or XP computer to a new computer. The transfer cable is faster than the external hard drive as it establishes a direct connection between the old computer and the new computer and eliminates the middleman ( external disk ).
Hire a Computer Carrier: Use Software That Does It All
Earlier versions of Windows included a service called Easy Transfer* that allowed users to easily move files between computers. Unfortunately this service ended with Windows® 10. But do not be upset; Microsoft has partnered with supplier Laplink PC Mover* to provide the functionality of the Easy Transfer service. Laplink PC Mover*'s service called PCMover Express* enables the transfer of data and settings from Windows XP computers to Windows 8.1 or higher computers. This service costs about $15. The PC Mover Professional service, which is more costly, allows you to move your applications as well. In case you run into a problem, both services offer 24/7 support.
Although this method is paid, it has advantages such as automating processes and preventing files from being overlooked in unfamiliar places on your old computer.
Various Operating Systems: Transfer Files from Mac to PC or PC to Mac
You can transfer files between Macs and PCs using external drives, cloud services, or home networks, just as you would between PCs. Or you can make the computer act like a personal assistant tasked with moving and sharing files: Mac OS X Lion and later operating systems migrate your contacts, calendars, email accounts, and more from a PC to your new Mac, placing files in the appropriate places. It offers a cool tool called.
Deep Clean: Prevent Your Old Data From Getting Into The Wrong Hands
After moving your files, you should keep your old computer for at least a few weeks in case you missed any of the files. Also, if you plan to sell, dispose of, or give away your old computer, make sure that all your data and personal information is deleted. Just transferring files is not enough. Even if you delete files or reformat the disk, expert hands can retrieve information you don't want to be retrieved, such as your bank details or old e-mails. Fortunately, free file destruction programs like Darik's Boot And Nuke ( DBAN ) erase everything from your old computer, leaving no trace of data behind.
Stay Safe: Back Up New Data
Now that you've learned to move your files from your old computer, it's time to create a permanent backup system in case you ever reload your files. Windows* 8 and later offer a useful feature called File History that allows you to automatically and periodically back up files to an external hard drive. This feature prevents your data from becoming history in the worst case.
If you have a Mac, you have several options and platforms for backing up your data from iCloud programs like Time Machine, depending on the version of OS X you're running.
Remember: While there are many easy ways to move and share data, you can only move data you can access. So make sure your documents, photos and other valuable data are protected even if your computer is lost or damaged. This process, which is easy to perform automatically, will make your next computer migration much more effortless.
