DATA… we all have it, right? And likely loads of it too! If you’re like most of us you have likely accumulated plenty of important data over the years. Whether it’s photos, videos, music, playlists, documents, emails or even our favourite bookmarks in our web browser, these are examples of how DIGITAL our lives have become. Migrating from an old computer to a shiny new one can be a daunting task! This process is called a data transfer.
Removing the shrinkwrap from a brand new computer or iOS device is always an exciting process. But sometimes that’s where the fun ends and the questions start. What do I do with my word files? What about my music library … where’s my WIFI password? And who can handle this FOR me?
Whether transferring your data from an aging Mac or from a PC, the first step is to look at the amount of data that you have, as well as what transfer method you’ll be using. This is important because many modern computers now have SSD (solid state hard drives), which are smaller than the spindle style hard drives of years gone by. Be sure that there is enough space on your new bundle of joy, to handle all the incoming files. And what’s more, do you have the required cables to connect the computers to ensure a steady (wired) stream of data from the old to the new?
Take the time to do a bit of spring cleaning. You’ll no doubt find files you simply no longer need. These could be old school assignments, blurry photos, or even projects that are no longer relevant. Clean up your desktop too (if it’s cluttered), by putting the documents in a proper home. If your computer has multiple users, plan to move only the accounts you need.
One of the tools that Apple provides is Migration Assistant. It doesn’t affect any of the files on your OLD computer, it is a handy utility to help bring the data across to the new Mac. When configured correctly, it can even transfer apps, as well as selected user accounts.
The next step is to make sure that all the versions of software as well as the two operating systems are compatible. When leaping forward from the old to the new, this interim step can become quite a headache for most of us. When transfers are handled by an Apple Certified Technician the issues or hiccups are no longer in your hands!
Call us if you feel overwhelmed and we will help!
