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Desktop folders gone after migrating to new Mac

Hi,

I just migrated my old Mac to a new Mac. Worked OK, except that my new Mac shows a completely empty desktop, save the HD. Where are all the folders that were there (on the old Mac, I mean)?

I tried to recoup them with Time Machine (on the new one, of course), and I could go back to 2 days ago, but no matter what, the 'restore' button is greyed-out.

Does anyone have any advice?

Thanks.

Mac mini, macOS 10.15

Posted on Apr 4, 2020 8:31 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Apr 4, 2020 9:43 AM

No, it is not necessary to turn off iCloud or iCloud Drive.

It is just a matter of turning off "Desktop and Documents in iCloud".


First, I recommend copying the contents of desktop and documents from icloud to any other folder inside your home folder:


press command-H to open your home folder; and command-shift-N to create a new folder. Name it, say "my stuff".

Drag the contents of the Documents and Desktop folders that are in icloud to your "my stuff" folder.


To turn off "documents and desktop in icloud":

• Go to System Preferences->Internet Accounts

• Select iCloud, and click on "Options" next to iCloud Drive

• Uncheck this box:


Similar questions

8 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Apr 4, 2020 9:43 AM in response to Caravaccio

No, it is not necessary to turn off iCloud or iCloud Drive.

It is just a matter of turning off "Desktop and Documents in iCloud".


First, I recommend copying the contents of desktop and documents from icloud to any other folder inside your home folder:


press command-H to open your home folder; and command-shift-N to create a new folder. Name it, say "my stuff".

Drag the contents of the Documents and Desktop folders that are in icloud to your "my stuff" folder.


To turn off "documents and desktop in icloud":

• Go to System Preferences->Internet Accounts

• Select iCloud, and click on "Options" next to iCloud Drive

• Uncheck this box:


Desktop folders gone after migrating to new Mac

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