Transferring Files and Settings Between Computers In Windows XP


If you’re replacing your old computer with a new one running Windows XP, your best bet is to connect the two computers over a local area network and use the Files And Settings Transfer Wizard. This technique is not only the fastest way to get your new computer up and running, it’s also the best way to avoid losing data. Because your existing data files remain intact on the old computer, you can recover easily if the wizard inadvertently leaves behind a crucial data file.

To get started, install Windows XP on the new computer and make sure that the old and new computers can successfully connect over your network.

Then go through these steps to run the Files And Settings Transfer Wizard:

1. On the new computer, click the Start button and then choose All Programs, Accessories, System Tools, Files And Settings Transfer Wizard. (To skip the cascading menus, you can also type migwiz at any command prompt, including the Run dialog box.) Click Next at the opening page.

2. When prompted, choose the New Computer option and click Next.


3. In the following dialog box, choose the I Will Use The Wizard From The Windows XP CD option and click Next.

4. At the old computer, insert the Windows XP CD into the CD-ROM drive. From the Welcome To Microsoft Windows XP menu, choose Perform Additional Tasks and then click Transfer Files And Settings. Click Next.

5. Choose the Old Computer option and click Next. If your old computer is not running Windows XP, the Old Computer option is automatically selected and this page does not appear. Proceed to step 6.

6. In the Select A Transfer Method dialog box, choose the Home Or Small Office Network option and click Next. (If this option is not available, verify that your network connection is working properly and start over with the new computer.)