PC migration

PC migration is the process of transferring the entire user environment (i.e. personal documents and settings) between two computer systems.^[1]

The migration problem is often associated with the concept of total cost of ownership where the requirement to migrate information is considered a "cost" in purchasing a new PC, similar considerations exist for businesses upgrading hardware/software.^[2]

PC migration is required whenever one needs to move to a new computer (i.e. purchasing new hardware), or upgrade to a new OS. Because of intrinsic differences and strong OS-hardware coupling, PC migration is considered to be a problem for both consumers and enterprises.^[3][4][5]

Some PC migration software products are capable of transferring not just settings and data, but also applications.^[6][7]

Sources for software that automates PC migration software include Laplink, Tranxition, and Swimage.^{[citation needed]}

Windows 10 does not any longer include a Windows transfer utility with the OS. Microsoft and Laplink PCmover have joined up to provide this functionality from Microsoft's site.^[8][9]