Purchasing a new-to-you laptop now involves transferring your data and setting up the laptop for success. A part of making this like-new device suit your distinct lifestyle is ensuring your pertinent data is accessible and that you’re comfortable navigating the device.
Many people feel wary with the data transfer process because one wrong click can easily delete essential information, or the wrong move can create an inconvenience later. Below, we explore how to transfer important data to a refurbished laptop so you can choose a method right for your needs and feel comfortable with the process.
Cloud- and Web-Based Data Transfers
Cloud and web-based data transfers are popular options for people with a mass quantity of data to transfer. These platforms have what seems like an unlimited threshold on item size limits, meaning you can transfer almost any sized file to your specific database. Though it’s essential to note the storage space you have on these platforms may vary based on package and personal preferences.
Platforms such as Google Drive and OneDrive are relatively easy to navigate. However, they’re best for sharing or transferring data across multiple platforms or individuals and in large quantities. If you’re an everyday laptop user with music, photos, or basic files, be mindful about choosing one of these options as your go-to data transfer source. They might house more capacity than you’ll ever need to pay for.
Transfers With Compatible Cabling
When your data transfer is minor and you’re looking for an efficient process, using compatible cabling is an effective solution that avoids using any platform or external drives. Using compatible cabling is quick and painless and moves files from your old PC to the new one via a copy-and-paste method.
Most often, the compatible cabling will include transfer software that will guide you through a data transfer process. You can partner with your refurbished-device retailer to inquire about the necessary cables. Alternatively, you can partner with the device’s manufacturer to ensure you receive the compatible cables for your device and your intended transfer.
External Drives With SATA Cables
SATA (serial advanced technology attachment) cables work with solid-state and hard-disk drives to connect with a device’s motherboard. This data transfer solution serves individuals best when they feel like they’ve run out of recovery options. Simply connect the old drive to the SATA cable and plug the cable into the refurbished device.
You will need to complete the necessary installation steps on the old drive for the refurbished device to complete the transfer. But once the installation is complete, the transfer can begin. Some users struggle with this data transfer option because they lack an additional SATA port on their new-to-them laptop. You can get around this issue by using a SATA-to-USB converter.
Transfer Software To Gain Speed
Depending on how much data you’re looking to transfer, the speed at which this completes can bog down your system or your day. Using data transfer software will best serve individuals with a medium amount of existing data. The transfer software will speed up the process and create efficiency when you have a little more data than you’re willing to move manually.
You’ll begin by installing the chosen software platform on your old PC and your refurbished PC so they can communicate with one another. A popular option is PCmover because it allows you, as the user, to choose precisely what you need or want without risking security or user-specific criterion. This software is compatible with Ethernet cables, Wi-Fi connections, or designated USB cables.
External Storage Devices
External storage drives are popular options for people learning how to transfer important data to a refurbished laptop. External storage drives are typically the go-to for individuals with small photo collections, standard files, or music playlists they would like to transfer and continue using. Sending data to yourself via email works when it’s only a few items at a time. But when you’re transferring full collections, storage devices will be your next feasible solution.
For this method, simply plug the flash USB into your old laptop and wait for the device to be recognizable. Once you receive the notification the USB has been detected, you can begin copying the desired files and dragging them into the USB device. Remember to thoroughly move the item and double-check you moved the data you want by finding it on the device’s item list. Tell the device you’re ready to eject it before removing it to avoid confusing your system.
Then, take your external device housing your data and plug it into your like-new refurbished laptop. Select the items you wish to upload to the device and download and save them as you would on your old device. The copy-and-paste feature is the most useful method for uploading files. And if you find storage is an issue on your external drive, consider upgrading the size or investing in multiple drives.
Transfer Data via Wi-Fi
You may find the easiest way to transfer data is internally, where you skip devices and plug-ins and resort to your Wi-Fi network to complete the transfer. To do this, you will set up a local area network (LAN) and use one laptop to review the other laptop’s files, transferring only those you want to keep.
Windows 10 is an excellent operating system for this process because it allows you to create your home LAN once. This lets you transfer data PC to PC any time you need to. It will recognize the network each time instead of asking you to start fresh. So if you want to transfer half your data one day and the other half later, the LAN accommodates this.
Post-Transfer Completion Steps
When you decide on a transfer method that works best for you and finishes moving the data, consider completing some post-transfer steps. These steps will help get your old device ready for a new home and your new device set up for success.
The first thing you want to consider is entirely wiping your old device. This will allow you to hand it over to a potential refurbished-device tech knowing your personal data is gone from the old laptop and with you instead.
The next step you want to take is backing up your new device once you finish the transfer. This is so you have an additional layer of data protection and will help your like-new laptop starts operations on the right foot.
Partner with Wisetek Market when you’re ready to buy a quality reconditioned laptop. We carry HP, Dell, Mac, and many other reputable brands. Our in-house team of refurbished-device experts can help you get your old device clean and swapped with a new-to-you laptop. Contact us today for more information!
