Unable to transfer files from Windows 7 to new iMac

I just unboxed a new (2019) iMac. I am at the initial setup on the iMac and I would like to automatically transfer the files from my Windows 7 PC to this new iMac. The iMac doesn't "see" the old PC until I have Windows Migration Assistant running. When I click continue on the iMac it says "PC-NAME could not be reached. Ensure both computers are on and connected to the same network." I have tried this over WiFi and over ethernet (plugged into each other) -- same result. Does anyone have any suggestions?


It feels like the PC is blocking the connection, but under "advanced sharing settings" on the PC, I have everything on. I even turned off "password protected sharing." I hope someone can help -- thank you!

iMac Line (2012 and Later)

Posted on Apr 2, 2019 9:00 PM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Apr 2, 2019 10:41 PM

I got it! The answer to this is infuriating.


When you go to https://www.apple.com/migrate-to-mac , you are propmted to download the software (Download Windows Migration Assistant v2.1.2.0). Only when you dig through the support documentation, do you find out there are 3 (!!!!!) versions of this migration software, and you need the right version to match the OS version on your new mac. Since you have no idea what your mac ships with, I tried Mojave (v 2.2.0) and it worked! That's right, the default software apple.com points you to is for Sierra! And they don't even mention (nor highlight!) there are more updated software exists. Maddening...


But hopefully someone else stumbles upon this.



3 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Apr 2, 2019 10:41 PM in response to Compton55

I got it! The answer to this is infuriating.


When you go to https://www.apple.com/migrate-to-mac , you are propmted to download the software (Download Windows Migration Assistant v2.1.2.0). Only when you dig through the support documentation, do you find out there are 3 (!!!!!) versions of this migration software, and you need the right version to match the OS version on your new mac. Since you have no idea what your mac ships with, I tried Mojave (v 2.2.0) and it worked! That's right, the default software apple.com points you to is for Sierra! And they don't even mention (nor highlight!) there are more updated software exists. Maddening...


But hopefully someone else stumbles upon this.



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Unable to transfer files from Windows 7 to new iMac

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