How To Tranfer files?

In order to transfer files from XP to Windows 7, it is very likely that as a normal PC user you would have to use one of the different software available on the market and capable to accomplish this task. With Windows 7 now on the market plenty of people are getting new computers and now need to transfer over their personal settings and files onto the new Windows 7 based computer. However, even if a lot of PC users have started to upgrade their operating systems to the newest version release by Microsoft, most of them would also like to not loose their files in the process, due to reasons such as time and efficiency.

One of the most appreciated computer software products available on the market, Laplink PCMOVER, it’s a utility that can migrate personal files, custom data and 3rd party software configurations from one machine to another, with limited effort at end user level.  Laplink PCMOVER is the only program on the market that can transfer over programs from XP over to Windows 7 with out you having to re-install them.  Even the Windows Transfer wizard cannot do this.

Due to the fact that only a limited number of the total upgrade scenarios documented by Microsoft are supported by Windows 7 and for the reason that Windows XP upgrade to Windows 7 is not supported, the usage of a utility such as Laplink PCMOVER may prove to be vital in the entire operating system upgrade process. It will not only provide help in making the best pre-upgrade choices but also ensure the fact that you will not loose any files, data or configurations, saving time and money at end user level.

Transfer files from XP to Windows 7 without the need to copy on external media and without the need to reinstall all applications when upgrading to Windows 7. Laplink PCMOVER ensures the fact that the entire process of transferring files from XP to Windows 7 is cut down to three easy steps: install, upgrade, restore.

Another option worth mentioning is going to be the Easy Transfer Wizard that was built into XP and Windows 7.  This program can transfer over custom settings, user account and the like.  However it cannot transfer over programs.  This is a popular option for many people out there but do expect to have some issues when doing the transfer.

Since the official market release of Microsoft Windows 7, a large amount of users have actually decided to try this new operating system. However, as any new platform, Windows 7 has its complications as well, even if they seem to be less problematic then other comparable Windows releases. One of the main problems when deciding to migrate to Windows 7, especially if you have just purchased a new computer alongside this operating system, is the file transfer between your old setup and Windows 7.

In most cases users want to transfer programs and custom settings and files over to the Windows 7 operating system or new computer.  To do this you have two options.  However only one of them will be able to transfer over programs.

In order to ensure proper XP to Windows 7 file transfer, one of the most common utilities that has proven a lot of success and respect from software review magazines is Laplink PCMOVER. This software is designed to scan, detect and help users in the migration process of files, data and settings from any actual PC to a new PC.  Overall this software program is very easy to use.  You install the program on both machines and then follow the on screens prompts.  You can use the data transfer cable method, do it over a network or even a delayed transfer to an external device.  This is the only program on the market that can transfer over programs so you don’t really have a chose if that is what you need to do.

A free method that is well worth mentioning is the Easy Transfer Wizard that is installed on both XP and Vista and Windows 7 computers.  The Wizard has a nice interface that allows you to transfer over all your user and custom settings as well as personal files.  The down side to this program is it will not be able to transfer over programs and does not always seem to work right.  It is not uncommon to have to two the transfer a few times to get everything you want.  The transfer can take a day or two as well for some reason when done over the network you need to make sure none of the computer go to sleep or offline.  Before you do the transfer you will need to pre-install any software programs onto the Windows 7 computer.  This is only needed if you want to transfer over custom settings from programs that you plan on using.  Outlook and Quickbooks would be good examples of this.

For my time and money I would recommend just using the Laplink PCMOVER program.  It’s easier and tends to do a great job transferring over data from XP to Windows 7.

I know plenty of people out there who heard about the problems Vista had and opted to get the XP operating system instead or downgrade from Vista to XP.  The problem tens of thousands now have is upgrading their operating system from XP to Windows 7.

Microsoft does not support a direct upgrade path for XP to Windows 7.  That means that if you want to install the latest and greatest operating system you have to do a clean install.  That means wiping out your drive and installing the new operating system on it.

I know what you’re thinking and I am right there with you.  Why would the big M do such a thing?  The answer is rather complicated but in a nut shell XP is a legacy operating system.  It’s been out for a decade now and has not been supported by them for a while besides updates.

The truth of the matter is you do have several different options.  I will do my best to give you a quick over view of your options.  Please read till the end because there are some important steps you do not want to miss out on.

The first is a delayed data transfer.  Basically you use the Easy Transfer Wizard to backup all your personal settings and documents.  Then you save it to a DVD, external drive of over the network.  Now that you have a copy of all your personal stuff you can wipe the drive.  Ensure you disconnect the backup device you used first.  This ensures you do not do anything too dumb like wipe the wrong drive.  Now you can install Windows 7 and then transfer over all your personal settings and documents.  I should note that you will still need to re-install your programs but your custom settings and personal files will be there.  Don’t think of it as a inconvenience.  Instead think of it as starting fresh.  Your operating system will never of been faster.  At least I’m trying to look on the bright side.

The second option is not one I would personally use but it works.  It requires you to, dare I say it,  buy Vista.  You use the vista disk to first upgrade from XP to Windows Vista.  Then install the SP1 for Vista and then upgrade again to Windows 7.  It works like a charm.  Just note that you need to keep the same bit platform. So if you have XP 32 bit then you will need to use the Windows 7 32 bit.  Also if you use Vista home then you will have to use the Windows 7 home, the same goes for Pro.  If you use Windows Vista Premium then you have to use Windows 7 premium.  Are you confused yet?  I will add a chart at the bottom of this article to help you out.

I saved the best option for last.  Call it a reward for you reading through the rest of the article.  In this option you will be able to transfer over all your programs and custom settings.  That is correct.  You will not have to re-install your software programs.  The only down side is you will need to spend around 30 bucks on a program called PCMOVER Upgrade Assistant.  This is the best 30 bucks you will spend this year.  In a nut shell you install the PCMOVER  Upgrade Assistant program.  Then run the wizard.  Just follow the prompts. Then insert the Windows 7 CD.  Choose “custom” install.  The purpose of this is so you do NOT format the drive.

Once the install is done you need to re-install the Pcmover Upgrade Assistant software.  Now you can follow the prompts and get all your data moved over into Windows 7.  This software works on 32 to 64 bit transfers and vice versa.  It is really a slick program for the low cost.

Now onto the important message.  Before you install Windows 7 you need to think about a few things.  First is to ensure your programs will still work on Windows 7.  Chances are they will but you may want to double check first.  I would recommend using the Windows 7 upgrade adviser tool from Microsoft.  Just follow the link.  It’s a free tool and it will let you know how well your PC should run on a Windows 7 as well as what hardware and software will work.  Keep in mind you may still need to get some driver updates or update your software program to make it compatible.  Just be prepared for that.  You need to run the free upgrade adviser tool first just to make sure.

If you are using a computer built from a manufacture then I would suggest you go to that manufacturers website and click on the support section.  then go to the drivers section.  You want to ensure drivers are listed for Windows 7 there.  If no drivers are listed then it may pose a problem after you upgrade.  In 95% of all cases I am guessing you will not have an issue.

Another cool link to check out to ensure software is compatible besides the Windows 7 Advisor program is www.microsoft.com/windows/compatibility/windows-7/en-us/default.aspx

Here is the chart I was talking about earlier

I hope this article has been helpful to you.  Again our recommended solution is to spend the 30 bucks and use Pcmover Upgrade Assistant.  We are working on getting a video made to show the exact steps on doing this.

Most people when it comes to transferring data from one computer to the next just want the simplest option out there. They are willing to pay a few bucks for a good solid data transfer program but they want one that is sure to work well for them. We are huge fans of PCMOVER for just this reason. It is very simple to use and gets the job done the first time.

However I am seeing more and more people wanting an online data backup solution. Maybe your computers are in two different locations or you only have one monitor and don’t want to copy all the data onto an external drive for a transfer later.

I do have a great solution for anyone looking to do an online data transfer and it might not cost you a single cent.

Take a few minutes to read this article before you jump in. You will be glad you did because this option may not be right for you. This option will not allow you to transfer any software programs over unless you are a very savvy user and understand what software programs can just be copied and pasted over to the new computer.

the program we are going to be using is Mozy. Check them out here to get your free 2 Gig online storage account. If you have over 2 gig’s of data you will need to pay for the storage but this is a free option for anyone out there that has under 2 gig’s of data or for someone willing to pay the 5 bucks or so each month for an online backup solution.

All you have to do is go here to the Mozy website. Sign up for an account and install the software. It is very easy to do. From there setup the program and select all the files you want to transfer over to the new computer. It is very easy to use so you should have no issues. Start the data backup when done and ensure everything is backed up.

Now log in to Mozy on the computer you want the software restored on. Download and install the software again. You will be asked to log in. Once logged in you will see the screen below.

Choose the option to replace your old computer. From there you will finish installing the software and at the end be asked if you want to go ahead and do a restore now of your old files. Select the yes option or you can do it later.

While this process is not as easy in my opinion as PCMOVER it is the best online data transfer option I can think of to transfer all your info form one computer to another.  Of course you can always hire a pro to do it for you but expect to pay far more to do it.  We do recommend www.onlinecomputerrepair.org for data transfers.  They are very fare in price and stand by their work.  This is a remote computer repair company but thet also do data transfers as well.

This solution is not for everyone and when ever possible I still would use PCMOVER in stead.  However for people with very few files or for those who have a computer in a whole nother location and don’t want to purchase an external hard drive just for the data transfer purpose then this is a great way to go.

You also get the added benefit of having a online backup solution in place.  You already paid for the service so you might as well use it.  If you end up going with PCMOVER then you still should consdier Mozy as your data backup solution.  Everyone needs an off site data backup.

Keep in mind again that Mozy will not trnasfer over software programs.  If you want to transfer over your custom user settings then I would not use Mozy.  go with PCMOVER because not only will it easily trasnfer all your files over but your user info as well.

Final Thoughts

Whenever you do a data transfer it is always best to install all the software you are going to be using first on the new computer.  This way all custom settings you import over will go right into the program you will be using.  Outlook and Firefox are great examples of this.

Post your questions or thoughts below

When a person acquires a new computer, they are challenged with the fact that they must transfer the files from their old computer to their new one. There are a variety of ways to do this, each with their own benefits and capabilities. The average user does not know how to transfer files from one computer to another. That is why a variety of software applications have been developed to assist in migrating information from one PC to another.

One of these utilities is from Laplink. The company has developed an application that allows users to move all the files from the old computer to the new one. PCMOVER is the only utility on the market today that allows for not just the movement of files, but also the transfer of programs and settings that were in position on the old PC and can be transferred and set on the new PC. A user needs to simply install the program on both computers and PCMOVER will handle the rest. It will determine which programs, files and settings are distinguished on the computer and copy them. It then installs them on the new PC in a timely manner. This means that the new computer will have the exact same personality and functionality of the old PC. The system works with almost all of the Windows operating systems, from Windows 95 to Vista.

Other methods of transferring files have not been able to move entire installations up until this point. Generally, a user needs to copy the files from programs that are related to personal information, save them and install them on the new PC after the program files have been loaded. In the past, this was done by burning a CD or DVD containing the information and installing the application features onto the new PC. Windows offers an option to transfer all of the old PC’s files and settings, however, this solution can miss certain small profiles that a user has come to enjoy. Modern options for transfer can be accomplished using an external hard drive or flash drive. The challenge with these are space considerations and placement of the files after transfer. A user can set up folders for backup, but is forced to spend a lot of time reinstalling these folders and files into the correct locations on the new PC.

Laplink’s PCMOVER allows for superior operational usage and functionality. It’s also a trusted resource for many professional information technicians. Its selectivity features allow even the most casual user to choose which applications, folders and files they would like to transfer. This transfer can be completed through a variety of means. If an individual or company has a network, the transfer of the information is as easy as utilizing the network’s properties to transfer the information. Otherwise, a variety of options for connecting the two PCs is possible. Laplink offers USB cables and parallel cables that link up two or more platforms for easy access. PCMOVER can also use the Windows Easy Transfer Cable. The application even allows for the easy migration of information from a PC to and Intel-based Mac. This modern feature is one of the only ways to transfer the personality and feel of a PC onto a different operating system. In all, PCMOVER can accomplish what many other programs and options cannot, migrating programs, applications and files with the proper system of security and efficiency in place.

For this guide we will be covering in-depth how to do a PC to PC Data Transfer. If you feel these instructions are too hard or just want something easier then we recommend using PCMOVER from Laplink at http://www.laplink.com/pcmover/. This software works great and can save you many headaches. Alternately you can have us do the transfer for you online at www.onlinecomputerrepair.org.
In this article we will be doing a PC to PC Data Transfer. The computer you have your data on will be called your old computer and the one you want to do the data transfer to will be known as your new computer. This guide is good for Windows 2000, XP and Vista.

File and Settings Transfer Wizard

For this exercise we will assume you do not have a network setup. If you do you should be able to fill in the blanks.

On Your New Computer you need to start the Windows Easy File Transfer Wizard. go to Start > All Programs > Accessories > System Tools > File and Settings Transfer Wizard. Once opened hit next and then select new computer. Type a path and folder name in which you will store the Windows Easy Transfer files. The default value is C:\migwiz. Click Next

On Your Old Computer plug the external device into your computer and open the migwiz file. If you are on a network just browse to where the file is stored on your new computer. When asked were you wish to store the files select a new folder on the media you are transferring the data to.

The fun part has arrived. You have a few different options. You can transfer over everything transferable by keeping the default settings at “Both files and settings”. If you choose this method then your personal Files and folders, E-mail settings, such as contacts and messages, Program settings, User accounts and settings, Internet settings and favorites, Music, pictures, and videos will be transferred over. You should consider re-installing any software you have on your old computer to the new one first. This way once the settings transfer is done your settings will all be there. If you install the software programs after the Windows Transfer Wizard then some of your custom settings may not be present. The Windows Transfer Wizard does not transfer over software programs. The only program on the market that does this is PCMOVER.

Now that the data has been copied onto your removable storage device you can plug it into your new system. Click Continue a transfer in progress. Some times you have to restart the wizard if this is the case just restart is and click the Continue a transfer in progress. Select the path to where the files are at on your media device. If you are on a network just browse to the path on the network.
That’s just about it. If you had multiple drives on your old computer you will be asked were you want to store those files. Many new systems have a second hard drive in them. If that is the case then just place them on the second drive.
As you can see it’s not all that hard. Once again if you have major issues or this looks too complicated then have us do it for you or just purchase software to do it for you.

Transferring files over a network is the easiest option. If you do not have a network setup then an external USB hard drive is the next and lastly burning data to a disk. If you have to burn the data to a disk it may take a while and several disks depending on how much data you have to transfer.