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Migration Assistant

I want to migrate apps and files from my old Mac to my new Mac, which is liable to amount to several gigabytes of data. The instructions say to log both computers to the same network (I don't use iCloud or other cloud computers). My network is a metered mobile data account for which I have an allowance 10gb per month. Will using Migration Assistant in this transfer use up my mobile data? Or is it strictly a transfer between the two computers? thanks!

MacBook Pro 13″, macOS 10.15

Posted on Jan 19, 2022 7:01 PM

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Posted on Jan 20, 2022 4:09 PM

Hello David Marusek,


We see that you have some questions about Migrating your data. We'd be happy to help!


If you have a limit on your network it's advised to use another method to migrate your data such as Time Machine or connecting to another network.


While the amount of network used during the process can vary, you don't want to get part way through and have it freeze.


Cheers!

4 replies
Question marked as Best reply

Jan 20, 2022 4:09 PM in response to David Marusek

Hello David Marusek,


We see that you have some questions about Migrating your data. We'd be happy to help!


If you have a limit on your network it's advised to use another method to migrate your data such as Time Machine or connecting to another network.


While the amount of network used during the process can vary, you don't want to get part way through and have it freeze.


Cheers!

Jan 21, 2022 10:26 AM in response to David Marusek

I offer the following to help ensure a good, clean transfer of data. I hope it helps. Migration Assistant is very easy to use. Be sure to read and follow its instructions. Basically, the process is as follows.

You first begin by starting the process of setting up your new computer. You will be asked if you wish to transfer files. Respond YES and follow the instructions you will be given.

You will be told to turn both computers on and activate Migration Assistant in the old computer.

The computers should be connected with a USB cable to facilitate the transfer.  Wi-Fi or wireless is simply not suited for a transfer of so much data and corruption often results.  Do not use it. It can corrupt or lose data.

You will be given several options as to what to transfer. You will likely want to transfer your settings and preferences.

You can transfer all or none of your files. You do not have an option to select certain files to transfer. If you wish to do that, then do so manually.

The old computer's operating system will not be transferred. No data from the old computer is erased.

Allow for up to an hour for the transfer process to complete once you start it.

It should set up the new computer the same as the old one.

Enjoy your new Mac.

Good luck.

Migration Assistant

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