The method used to move files between Windows computers (PCs) depends on how many files you want to move. You can try starting from the first method to move a few files, or the Windows Easy Transfer method to move entire system files.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Transferring Files with a Portable Hard Disk
Step 1. Find (or buy) a removable hard drive that is compatible with your PC
Hard disks with sizes up to 1 terabyte or more are available at the nearest internet store or computer store in your location.
- It's a good idea to use a portable hard drive for file storage if you don't have cloud-based file storage.
- Don't use a hard drive that you've designated specifically for backing up data as a medium for transferring files between computers.
- If you are using a cloud backup, check to see if you can download the files to another computer by logging in to the other computer. Some programs may not have this capability, while others may require computer verification before they can download files.
Step 2. Use a small USB flash drive if you want to transfer files with a total size of under 64 GB (gigabytes) to another computer
This method is suitable if your two PCs are far apart.
- Flash disks can be purchased at office supply stores, electronics stores and internet stores, prices start from IDR 50,000, 00 to IDR 700,000, 00, depending on the size of the storage capacity.
- Instead of a USB disk, you can write the files to a CD or DVD. But you need a write-able disc which is expensive. Files written to this disc are permanently stored. This is in contrast to portable hard drives and flash drives, where data on them can be erased.
Step 3. Connect the portable hard drive or flash drive
Double click on the portable hard drive/floppy disk when it appears. The contents of this media will open in a special window.
Disable the programs that came with your portable hard drive because you don't need them to move files. Some portable hard drives have a separate program for backing up the data on your computer
Step 4. Click the Start menu on the Windows desktop
Navigate to where the files are located.
If your files are scattered all over the place, this is a good time to sort them by type. It's easier to move directories than individual files
Step 5. Drag the hard disk window and the file directory window side by side
This makes it easier for you to click and drag files from your computer to your hard drive.
Step 6. Click the directory you want to move
Alternatively, you can click on the file names and drag them one by one.
Step 7. Drag the file to the hard disk window
A small dialog box may appear, stating that the file is being moved. For large files, this dialog box will display the time it will take to copy the files.
Step 8. Repeat this procedure until all the files you want to move are copied to the hard disk
Step 9. Close the hard drive window
Open My Computer and right-click to eject the portable hard drive.
If the hard drive is not ejected and immediately removed from the computer, your data on the hard drive may be lost
Step 10. Plug the hard drive into the destination PC using a cable or hard drive
Double-click on the hard drive window when the computer recognizes it.
Step 11. Drag the files to the desktop or to a computer directory
Arrange the directories so that they are next to each other so that it is easy for you to move files to the correct location on your computer.
If you choose to drag them to the desktop, you can organize them later into other directories
Method 2 of 3: Moving Files Over the Network
Step 1. Make sure that both PCs are on the same network
If you are using a wireless network, make sure the speed is reliable for the transfer process to be effective.
This option is best suited if you regularly move files between PCs, but not at the same time
Step 2. Log on to the public network on both PCs
Step 3. Click the Start menu
Open My Computer. Select drive (drive) or hard disk C from the list of options.
Step 4. Right-click on the disc and select Properties
You should also be able to select Properties from the File menu at the top.
Step 5. Click on the Sharing tab in the Properties dialog box
Select the Advanced Sharing button.
Step 6. Select the box at the top that says Share this Folder or Change Advanced Sharing Settings
These options may differ depending on the version of Windows you are using.
Step 7. Click Apply when you are done
Step 8. Log in to your other PC
Open the Start menu and select Network from within your list of standard options.
Step 9. Look for your other PC in the list of connected computers
Double-click the computer. Enter your password to gain access.
The password is the same as the one you normally use to log into the other computer
Step 10. Look for files that are considered shareable to your other PCs
Drag the files to your new PC for transfer.
Method 3 of 3: Using Windows Easy Share
Step 1. Purchase an “easy transfer cable” from the nearest internet or electronics store
This is a special male-to-male USB cable for transferring files directly between PCs.
- This method is most suitable for those who bought a new PC and want to move all the files and programs to the new PC.
- On a new PC, use a local area network (LAN) to move files via Windows Easy Transfer. You will be given a transfer key which will be entered into the application on both computers. Newer PCs will be able to connect more quickly to the internet, while older PCs should be connected directly to ensure this process session doesn't time out.
Step 2. Download Windows Easy Transfer app from Microsoft Download Center
You must download it if you are using Windows Vista or Windows XP.
Go to microsoft.com/en-us/download
Step 3. Install the program
Sign in with an administrator account that you can access from both PCs. You must be signed in with the same account on both computers.
Step 4. Open the Windows Easy Transfer app on the new PC
This application is now a default application on Windows 7 and 8 operating systems.
You should be able to find it in your app. Otherwise, use the search function with “Easy Transfer” as the keyword
Step 5. Enter the administrator password, or easy transfer key on each of the easy transfer and LAN cables
Step 6. Click Next on the first screen
Choose the method you will use to move the files, such as via cable or network.
Step 7. Select This is my new PC
Select the type of Windows operating system used by the old computer.
Step 8. Open Windows Easy Transfer on the old computer
Click Next in the initial dialog box.
Step 9. Begin the transfer process
This process will scan all files, programs and accounts that can be moved from the old PC. Click Customize and deselect anything you don't want to move
