Migration Assistant unable to connect MacBook Pro to new Mac

Question

Level 1

5 points

Migration Assistant unable to connect MacBook Pro to new Mac

I am trying to use migration assistant from my old Mac (Mac Book Pro) to a new Mac Neo.

Both are connected to the same wi-fi network, both are plugged into the power sockets. On the Neo, my MacBook pro is identified as a possible source for migration, but when I select it and click continue, I get an error message saying "Unable to connect".

I have tried opening up the MacBook pro in safe mode, but the same error still occurs.

MacBook Pro 13″, macOS 15.7

Posted on Jul 12, 2026 8:14 AM

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Answer 1

Jul 12, 2026 10:02 AM in response to Nowonami

Review this and see if there is anything here: Transfer to a new Mac with Migration Assistant - Apple Support

Any chance either Mac is running security or VPN software?

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Answer 2

leroydouglas

Level 10

204,652 points

Jul 12, 2026 10:19 AM in response to Nowonami

Nowonami wrote:

I am trying to use migration assistant from my old Mac (Mac Book Pro) to a new Mac Neo.

Both are connected to the same wi-fi network

Did you try a cable connection...?

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Answer 3

Jul 12, 2026 11:38 AM in response to Nowonami

Are you running Migration assistant on BOTH new and old Macs?

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Answer 4

leroydouglas

Level 10

204,652 points

Jul 12, 2026 11:06 AM in response to Nowonami

Nowonami wrote:

when I select it and click continue, I get an error message saying "Unable to connect".

Thank you for your reply. I did indeed. I started with using a cable connection, and when that didn't work I just tried the wifi. Neither worked.

re:"when I select it and click continue, I get an error message saying "Unable to connect".

hmmm....

not sure what your issue would be there if it is refusing to recognize your new Mac Neo as a destination.

Your 90 days of complimentary telephone support begins on the date of purchase.

Call Customer Support (800) MY–APPLE (800–692–7753)

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Answer 5

Nowonami Author

Level 1

5 points

Jul 12, 2026 10:54 AM in response to leroydouglas

Thank you for your reply. I did indeed. I started with using a cable connection, and when that didn't work I just tried the wifi. Neither worked.

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Answer 6

Nowonami Author

Level 1

5 points

Jul 12, 2026 10:55 AM in response to D.I. Johnson

Thank you for your reply. They would only be running such software if apple had installed it, because I haven't installed any.

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