How to Transfer Files to a New Computer
Got a new computer? The exciting part is the shiny new machine; the daunting part is moving years of files, photos and settings across without losing anything. The good news is it's simpler than it looks — there are three reliable methods, and the right one depends on how much you're shifting and what you've got to hand. This guide walks through all three on Windows and Mac, plus the bits people always forget.
1. Decide what to move
Most of what matters lives in just a few folders: Documents, Pictures, Desktop and Downloads. Take a moment to look through them and weed out the junk while you're at it — there's no sense copying years of clutter onto a fresh machine. Beyond files, jot down the less obvious things: browser bookmarks and saved passwords, email accounts, and any software licence keys you'll need to re-activate programs. Most of these sync to an online account, but it's worth checking rather than assuming.
2. Method one: cloud sync (easiest)
If you already use OneDrive, iCloud Drive or Google Drive — or are happy to — this is the smoothest route. Sign in on both machines, put your files into the synced folder on the old one, and let them download automatically onto the new one. The big advantages are that there's no cable juggling, and you end up with an off-site backup of those files as a bonus. The catch is that it depends on a decent internet connection and enough cloud storage, so it's best for moderate amounts of data rather than a vast photo and video library.
3. Method two: an external drive
The old reliable. Copy your folders onto a USB stick or external hard drive on the old PC, then copy them onto the new one. It's fast for large amounts of data, needs no internet at all, and the drive doubles as a handy backup afterwards. For hundreds of gigabytes of photos and videos, this is usually quicker than waiting on the cloud.
4. Method three: a direct transfer
If both computers are to hand, you can move data directly between them — over your home network, or with a dedicated transfer cable or tool. On a Mac, Migration Assistant can copy your files, apps and settings across from another Mac almost in their entirety, which is the most complete option of all. On Windows, network sharing or a transfer cable does the job for files. This route shines when you want to move everything with minimal manual sorting.
5. Reinstall your programs
Here's the thing people trip over: apps don't transfer — only their files do (Mac Migration Assistant aside). You'll need to reinstall the programs you use on the new machine and sign back in. Make a list of your key software before you start, so nothing's forgotten, and download installers from the official sources rather than wherever a search engine sends you.
6. Check nothing's missing before you wipe the old machine
This is the golden rule: confirm your files, photos, bookmarks, email and software are all present and working on the new computer before you erase the old one. It's heartbreakingly common to wipe an old machine the same day, only to realise a week later that one important folder never made it across. Live on the new computer for a few days first; once you're completely confident, you can securely wipe and recycle the old one.
Don't forget these easily-missed items
- Browser data. Sign into your browser account to bring bookmarks, saved passwords and history across automatically.
- Email. Re-add your accounts; for work email see setting up a work account.
- Two-factor authentication. If you use an authenticator on a device you're replacing, move it over so you don't get locked out.
- That one weird program. Everyone has a niche app they only remember when they need it — note it now.
Let us do the migration
Setting up a brand-new machine — or a whole fleet of them for a business — is exactly the kind of fiddly, easy-to-get-wrong job we do every day. Our computer repair and business IT support teams transfer your data, reinstall your software, set everything up ready to go, and securely wipe the old kit. See also our new-PC setup checklist for businesses.