[Floridaboiler]

I bought a new computer about 2 weeks ago and it is still in the box. I was going to at least get it set up and start transferring a lot of the files from this current computer to the new one. Is there an easy way to transfer the programs themselves also without having to reload them all? Does that make sense?

 

[satfix]

Data yes...<br><br>
Programs No... you're going to have to reload them.<br><br>
On the data - I just did the same thing. Went to Bestbuy and bought a USB Hard Drive for about $90.00 - moved data to that and then to my new computer....<br><br><br>
Painless

 

[RichMac]

I think you can connect the two computers.. and just drag and drop the whole drive if you want

 

[satfix]

If they're not the same computers (Identical hardware), you'll run into problems with compatibility. And you'll have to do it with an 'image' program - which will complete overwrite the new computer.<br><br>
Doing that also takes all the garbage over along with the programs.<br><br>
You can't have that many programs to reinstall. You'll be better off to pour a cup of coffee and simply reinstall.<br><br><i>unless you don't have the install cd.. then you're S.O.L.<br><br><br></i>

 

[RunsTheBitterroot]

Reload the software. Microsoft office will load on your new computer but you won't be able to register it and will display a message every time you run Office programs. Files can be dumped on CD and transfered to the new computer or you can do what I did. I cut my Ethernet cable in half, stripped the wires and reversed them on each twisted pair so that I could network the two computers thru the ethernet cable then transfered the files thru the network.<br><br>
Back to my Microsoft office software, I had office 2003 and didn't like the message but there was a trial version of 2007 office student, decided I liked it better than 2003 so I bought the newer version of office for my new computer.<br><br>
Have fun with your new computer! Larry

 

[carbonfiberRibs]

oh man.<br>
I'd love to watch this. I'm curious as to the messages that might occur.<br><br>
as Rich said, using Ghost or other imaging software works if you're using identical computers - that's the only way to install an entire drive at once.<br><br>
bitterroot essentially made a crossover cable to connect his machines directly via the ethernet ports. there are USB cable with a converter that do the same thing - pricey for what they do IMO. crossover is a better option.<br><br>
Rich's external drive is your ideal situation. use the drive to transfer, then as backup. but make sure you regularly backup your important info. There are devices now that will allow you to put that external drive on your network so you can backup to it from all your computers.<br><br>
Reinstall the programs. it takes a little time, but it's the only way to do it.