Transferring Data and Setting Up a New Computer
How to move your files, settings, and apps to a new computer using migration tools or a clean start
Getting a new computer comes with a choice: migrate everything from your old one, or start fresh. Both approaches work, but the right one depends on how much baggage your old setup is carrying.
Migration (copy everything over):
- Fastest way to get working again — apps, files, settings all carry over
- Good if your old machine was running well and you just want the same setup on newer hardware
- Risk: also copies old junk, broken preferences, and apps you forgot about
Clean start (set up from scratch):
- Takes longer but your new machine runs exactly how it should out of the box
- Good if your old computer was slow, cluttered, or had issues
- You pick and choose what to bring over — nothing you do not want comes along
If your old computer has years of accumulated apps and settings you never cleaned up, a fresh start is usually worth the extra time. If your setup is clean and you just upgraded hardware, migration is fine.
Either way, back up your old computer before doing anything.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I use migration or start fresh?▾
If your old computer was running fine and you want to get back to work fast, migrate. If your old machine was slow, cluttered with old apps, or having issues, start fresh. A fresh start takes more time upfront but gives you a cleaner system.
Will Migration Assistant transfer my applications?▾
On Mac, yes — Migration Assistant copies most applications along with your user data. On Windows, apps from the Microsoft Store reinstall automatically through Windows Backup, but traditional desktop applications need to be downloaded and installed again on the new PC.
How long does a migration take?▾
It depends on how much data you have and the connection type. A Thunderbolt cable transfer on Mac can finish in under an hour for typical setups. Wi-Fi transfers and large libraries (photos, music) can take several hours. Plan to do it overnight if you have more than 500 GB.
Can I transfer data between Mac and Windows?▾
Mac Migration Assistant can pull documents, email, contacts, calendars, and bookmarks from a Windows PC. Going the other direction (Mac to Windows) requires manual file transfer — copy files to an external drive or cloud storage, then move them to the new PC.
What should I do with my old computer?▾
Back up anything you still need, then sign out of all accounts (Apple ID, Microsoft account, Google, etc.). If you are selling or giving it away, factory reset it. On Mac, use System Settings > General > Transfer or Reset > Erase All Content and Settings. On Windows, use Settings > System > Recovery > Reset this PC and choose Remove everything.