When migrating data from an old Mac to a new Mac, which should happen first?

Question

When migrating data from an old Mac to a new Mac, which should happen first?

When migrating data from an old Mac to a new Mac, which should happen first? Should you turn on the new Mac and select to migrate from the old Mac, or set up a user account on the new Mac before manually running Migration Assistant. Or something else I'm getting conflicting answers as you can see, and I've used both methods for many years: The is what I'm reading:

"You should set up an account on the new Mac first. This will ensure that your data is transferred to the new Mac correctly. If you try to transfer your data before setting up an account, you may run into problems, such as not being able to access your data or having it corrupted."

"You should turn on the new Mac and select to transfer the data across. This is because Migration Assistant will guide you through the process of copying your data to the new Mac, including all of your applications, documents, and other files. You will also have the option to choose which items you want to transfer. If you set up an account on the new Mac first, you will have to manually migrate your data using a method such as Time Machine or external hard drive. This can be a more time-consuming and complicated process, so it is generally recommended to use Migration Assistant instead."

"You should set up an account on the new Mac first. This is because setting up an account will create a new user profile on the new Mac, which will be where your data is migrated to. If you turn on the new Mac and select to transfer the data across, it will create a new user profile for you on the new Mac, but it will also create a new user profile on the old Mac. This can be confusing and make it difficult to keep track of your data."

"It does not matter which Mac has the newer version of macOS. Migration Assistant can transfer data between Macs running different versions of macOS, as long as the old Mac is running macOS 10.5 or later. In fact, it is often recommended to transfer data to a new Mac that is running a newer version of macOS, as this will ensure that all of your applications and files are compatible with the new version of the operating system."

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Posted on Nov 22, 2023 6:46 AM

Reply

Answer 1

Ronasara

Level 6

14,472 points

Nov 22, 2023 9:43 AM in response to The_Knowledge_Seeker

You should begin by setting up the new computer. Below, I have outlined the steps involved for you.

Migration Assistant is a program provided by Apple for transferring your files from your old computer to your new computer. It 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. At a point 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 cable to facilitate the transfer. Wi-Fi is not suited for a transfer of so much data and corruption often results. If you must use it, make sure the two computers are located close together.

· You will be given several options of 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. You can transfer all or none of your installed apps. Some people elect to download fresh installations to the new computer instead.

· 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.

· When that is successful, you can log into the new Mac with the old User Account name and password and delete the brand-new user or leave it in place as a second admin account.

Enjoy your new Mac.

I hope this is helpful. Good luck.

Reply