Transferring programs from one computer to another

Question

Hi,

        I currently have windows 7. It is no longer supported by Microsoft. I have to get a computer with windows 10. My question is what is the best way to copy my programs and files from windows 7 to windows 10? I have some programs that I need to transfer. Is the best way using a flash drive in the USB port or is there a better way. How do I go about transferring with the flash drive. Please let me know. Thanks.

Harold

Answer 1

Programs should be reinstalled from the original media (DVD, download, etc.).

You can't copy/paste installed programs from the programs folder and think that's it, as when a program is installed the files are spread throughout the operating system, in the registry and file association for other programs, etc., etc.

You should also check with the program manufacturer to see if programs are compatible with 10.

If they aren't:

Make older apps or programs compatible with Windows 10

https://support.microsoft.com/en-au/help/15078/windows-10-make-older-apps-or-programs-compatible

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For data:

The simplest method is to copy/paste your data files to USB flash drive > then plug flash drive into Windows 10 > copy/paste files through File Explorer on 10.

Or read through this Microsoft information:

Move files off a Windows 7 PC using Backup and Restore.

Applies to: Windows 7 Windows 10

https://support.microsoft.com/en-au/help/4469209/windows-7-move-files-off-pc-using-backup-and-restore

Moving to a Windows 10 PC.

Applies to: Windows 10Windows 7Windows 8.1

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/4229823/moving-to-a-windows-10-pc

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Microsoft has partnered with this company back from the XP > 7 days.

Personally I don't use it.

It does not come for free: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us%2Fwindows%2Ftransfer-your-data

Move your files, folders, and more to your new Windows 10 PC for only $14.95.^*^ Microsoft has partnered with Laplink to provide you with a special offer – for a limited time, save 50% off the regular price of $29.95 for PCmover Express.

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But that program does go further to move programs for more money with the Professional version $44.95.

https://pcmover-10.laplink.com/index.html#pro

Cheers.

Answer 2

Thanks I will try the flash drive.

Harold

Answer 3

flash drive is only for your Data, NOT for transferring Programs.

And your question is about transferring programs.

Answer 4

You can not copy programs from one installation to another.  Simply, you cannot. 

You must re-install them.  That typically requires the installation software and in some cases activation procedures.  Check to see if your program is able to work on Windows 10 BEFORE you make the switch.

Answer 5

From my earlier reply:

Programs should be reinstalled from the original media (DVD, download, etc.).

You can't copy/paste installed programs from the programs folder and think that's it, as when a program is installed the files are spread throughout the operating system, in the registry and file association for other programs, etc., etc.

You should also check with the program manufacturer to see if programs are compatible with 10.

If they aren't:

Make older apps or programs compatible with Windows 10

https://support.microsoft.com/en-au/help/15078/windows-10-make-older-apps-or-programs-compatible