Self HelpBoise Computer Care

Windows

Move files to a new computer

Moving to a new PC or Mac? How to transfer files, photos, bookmarks and email with Windows Backup, OneDrive, Migration Assistant or a USB drive.

Difficulty
Easy
Time
1-3 hours
Steps
8
Updated

Sounds like this?

  • Upgrading to a new PC or Mac
  • Need photos, documents and bookmarks moved
  • Old computer still works (or barely)

Step by step

  1. Make a list of what matters: Documents, Desktop, Pictures, Videos, Music, Downloads, browser bookmarks and saved passwords, email, and app license keys.
  2. Sync browsers: sign in to Chrome, Edge or Firefox on both computers so bookmarks and passwords follow you.
  3. Windows to Windows: use the Windows Backup app on the old PC (Windows 10/11) to back up folders, apps and settings to your Microsoft account, then sign in on the new PC to restore. Or copy folders to OneDrive.
  4. Any to any: copy your user folders to an external drive, then copy them onto the new computer.
  5. Mac to Mac: use Migration Assistant (Applications › Utilities). Windows to Mac: Apple's Windows Migration Assistant.
  6. Reinstall apps from their official sites; you can't copy most programs as files.
  7. Open a sample of photos and documents on the new machine to confirm they work.
  8. Only then wipe the old computer (see our recycle guide).

Quick answers

When should I stop and get professional help with "Move files to a new computer"?

Stop and get help if: The old computer won't boot, but you need its files. Files are missing or won't open after copying. You have old email in a desktop program (like Outlook PST files) and aren't sure how to move it. Boise Computer Care can diagnose it for a $60 fee; call 208-996-3508.

How long does this fix take and how hard is it?

Plan on 1-3 hours. Difficulty: Easy.

Is it safe to try this myself?

Mostly, if you follow these precautions: Don't wipe or recycle the old computer until you've checked that everything arrived on the new one. If the old drive makes clicking noises, stop and get professional data recovery instead.

Still stuck?

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  • Diagnostic$60
  • Shop repairs$100/hr
  • On-site$100/hr + $100 visit

10504 W Fairview Ave, Boise ID · Fri–Wed 10 AM–8 PM · Closed Thursday

Book a repair at BCCCall 208-996-3508

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