PC migration is the process of transferring the entire user environment (i.e. personal documents and settings) between two computer systems.[1]
The migration problem is often associated with the concept of total cost of ownership where the requirement to migrate information is considered a "cost" in purchasing a new PC, similar considerations exist for businesses upgrading hardware/software.[2]
PC migration is required whenever one needs to move to a new computer (i.e. purchasing new hardware), or upgrade to a new OS. Because of intrinsic differences and strong OS-hardware coupling, PC migration is considered to be a problem for both consumers and enterprises.[3][4][5]
Some PC migration software products are capable of transferring not just settings and data, but also applications.[6][7]
Sources for software that automates PC migration software include Laplink, Tranxition, and Swimage.[citation needed]
Windows 10 does not any longer include a Windows transfer utility with the OS. Microsoft and Laplink PCmover have joined up to provide this functionality from Microsoft's site.[8][9]
^Rick Broida (21 October 2009). "Migrate to Windows 7--Slowly". PCWorld. PCWorld Communications, Inc. Archived from the original on 30 April 2012. Retrieved 29 May 2012.
^JamesHolder; Jeff Schertz (6 August 2008). "Computer Migration problem". Microsoft Exchange Server TechCenter. Microsoft. Archived from the original on 24 February 2012. Retrieved 29 May 2012.