Transferring files between computers
Summary
This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: Transferring files between computers. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.
Common Causes
Transferring Files Between Computers - Windows 11
Quick Methods
Method 1: USB Flash Drive / External Drive (Easiest)
1. Connect USB drive to old computer
2. Press Win + E to open File Explorer
3. Navigate to files you want to transfer
4. Copy files (Ctrl + C)
5. Paste to USB drive (Ctrl + V)
6. Safely eject (right-click > Eject)
7. Connect to new computer and copy files over
Method 2: Windows Migration Tool (Best for Full Transfer)
1. On new PC, search "Get Started app" in Microsoft Store
2. Open it and select "Transfer from another PC"
3. Follow the steps
4. Choose transfer method (USB cable or network)
Method 3: Direct Cable (Ethernet)
1. Connect computers with an Ethernet cable
2. On old PC: Settings > Network & internet > Advanced network settings
3. Click "Network and Sharing Center"
4. Set up new connection > Set up a dial-up or VPN connection
5. Actually easier: Use HomeGroup (Windows 10) or file sharing
Easier file sharing method:
1. Right-click a folder > Properties > Sharing
2. Click Share > Add "Everyone" and give Read/Write permissions
3. On other PC, open File Explorer > Network
4. Find the computer and access shared folder
Method 4: OneDrive / Cloud Storage
1. Put files in OneDrive folder on old PC
2. Wait for upload
3. On new PC, sign into OneDrive
4. Files download automatically
Method 5: Send to Yourself (Email)
- For small files only (under 25MB)
- Email files to yourself
- Download on new computer
Method 6: Bluetooth (Small Files Only)
1. Right-click file > Send to > Bluetooth device
2. Accept on receiving computer
What to Transfer
- Documents
- Pictures / Photos
- Music
- Desktop files
- Browser bookmarks (Chrome, Edge, Firefox)
- Email (if using Outlook, export PST file)
How to Export Browser Bookmarks
Chrome:
1. Click three dots > Bookmarks > Bookmark manager
2. Click three dots > Export bookmarks
Edge:
1. Click three dots > Favorites > Export favorites
Transfer Large Programs?
- Most programs must be reinstalled on new PC
- Export settings if the app has export/import
- You'll need product keys for paid software