You can move data from one laptop to another in several easy ways. However, the appropriate method will depend on the type of laptop, the size and amount of data you wish to transfer, and your technical capabilities.
Step
Method 1 of 7: Transferring Data via SMB
Step 1. Make sure both laptops are connected to the same network
SMB (Server Message Block) is a protocol (set of rules) for transferring files between computers on the internet. Through SMB, you can transfer data from a laptop PC, Mac, or a combination of both. SMB is the fastest and easiest method for transferring large files between laptops.
- Perform file transfers on a secure network, rather than a public network.
- Protect user profiles on both laptops with passwords to strengthen file transfer security.
- Make the source laptop the server, and the destination laptop the client.
Step 2. Set the laptop containing the files you want to move as a server
On this laptop, you have to change the network settings and name it workgroup. The workgroup serves as a "meeting place" for the two laptops. You can use any workgroup name.
- In Windows, set the workgroup name in the Computer Domain & Workgroup Settings settings, then restart the laptop.
- On a Mac, set the workgroup name in the System Preferences->Network->Advanced->WINS menu. After naming the workgroup, apply the changes.
- Remember the server computer name.
Step 3. Perform network settings on the client laptop, and make sure the client laptop has the same workgroup name as the server
Step 4. Access the file, then start the transfer process
Double-click the server computer name to see a list of shared folders on the server.
- On Windows, open the Network app. After a few seconds, all computers in the same workgroup will appear in the window, including the server laptop you just set up.
- On a Mac, all computers in the same workgroup will appear in a Finder window.
Method 2 of 7: Using FTP
Step 1. Set up the FTP server
FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is also a good way to transfer files between laptops over the internet. To use FTP, you must first set up an FTP server on the laptop containing the files you want to transfer. FTP is a great way to move files if you frequently move files between laptops.
- On a Mac, go to System Preferences->Sharing->Services, then check the FTP Access option. After that, click Start, and wait for the changes to take effect. You may need to follow different steps to enable an FTP server, depending on the version of OS X you're using.
- In Windows, go to Control Panel->Programs->Programs and Features->Turn Windows features on or off, then click the plus button next to Internet Information Services (IIS). After that, check the FTP Server option, and click OK.
Step 2. Install the FTP client on the client laptop to access the FTP server via its network address
Popular FTP clients include FileZilla, WinSCP, Cyberduck, and WebDrive.
Step 3. Access the files on the FTP server from the client with the computer username and password
Once connected, you can transfer files quickly and safely.
- On Mac, click Finder->Go->Connect to Server. Enter the server IP address in the address bar, then click Connect.
- In Windows, open a browser and enter the server IP address in the address bar. After that, click File > Login As, and enter your username and password.
- If you don't know the server's IP address, read the following article to find the IP address on a Mac, or the following article to find the IP address on Windows.
- For more information on setting up an FTP server, check out guides on the internet.
Method 3 of 7: Using Storage Media
Step 1. Find compatible storage media
External USB drives are sometimes formatted with a file system compatible with only one operating system (OS X or Windows). You may need to reformat the storage media you are using with a universal file system (such as FAT32) before starting the transfer process. If you're not very tech savvy, you can use a storage medium to transfer files between two laptops, but keep in mind that this method is quite slow.
- If your storage media is detected by both operating systems, you can continue the transfer process.
- If you need to format a drive with the FAT32 file system, read the following article.
- By using storage media as the transfer method, it will take you a long time to transfer large files.
Step 2. Make sure the storage media has enough free space to accommodate the files you want to transfer, then connect the storage media to the server computer
It's a good idea to plan your transfer carefully so you don't run out of storage space.
Step 3. Move the files you want to transfer to the storage media as usual (for example by dragging and dropping files to the storage media), then wait for the process to complete
Step 4. Move the storage media to the client laptop
Make sure you remove the storage media from the server properly so that the files on it are not corrupted. Once the storage media is connected to the client laptop, copy the files to the desktop or other location as desired.
Method 4 of 7: Transferring Files Via Cloud
Step 1. Choose a cloud storage service
Companies like Dropbox, Google Drive, and others provide cloud storage services to keep your important data safe. You can also use this storage service to transfer files between two laptops effectively. To transfer files via the cloud, create an account at the service of your choice. Generally, service providers will provide storage space that you can use for free.
Transferring files via cloud services can be slow and costly. Use a cloud service to periodically move small files
Step 2. Upload the file to the cloud service
To upload files, you can drag and drop files into your web browser after opening the service provider's site, or use the file upload form, depending on the service you are using. Wait for the upload process to complete.
Step 3. Access your cloud storage account from the client computer, then download the files you want to transfer them
Cloud services also provide consistent backup functions that will help you keep your data safe. Apart from security functions, you can also use cloud services to collaborate
Method 5 of 7: Connecting Laptop Via FireWire
Step 1. Check the compatibility of your laptop
To transfer files via FireWire, you'll need to have a laptop with a FireWire port and the appropriate cable.
The transfer method via FireWire is suitable if you are transferring files between two Macs or PCs. If you want to transfer files from two laptops with different operating systems, use another method
Step 2. Connect both ends of the FireWire cable
FireWire cables come in different shapes. Make sure you have the right cables and adapters before you begin.
Step 3. Access the server computer (containing the files you want to move) from the client
The server laptop will appear on the desktop or external drive window.
Step 4. Once the laptop is connected, move the files as usual with a file manager application
Method 6 of 7: Sending Email Attachments to Yourself
Step 1. Send an email at your own email address
You can use email to quickly send small files. However, if you need to send a large file, try another method.
Step 2. Attach the files you want to move
The size of the file you can send will depend on the email service provider you use. You can attach files by dragging and dropping them into the email window, or by clicking the Attach button and selecting files manually.
Step 3. Access your email address via the client's laptop, then download the attachment you sent yourself
Method 7 of 7: Using a Crossover Cable
Step 1. Create a network between two computers without a router
Step 2. Use a crossover type Ethernet cable
- Set the IP addresses on both laptops, and make sure they are on the same subnet.
- Share a folder on one of the laptops.
- Copy files through the shared folder.
Tips
- Use SMB or FTP to move large files.
- For security reasons, do not transfer files over unsecured public networks.
