I want to copy information from a Mac to a laptop. I want to use both Mac desktop and laptop. Is this possible or should I just set the new laptop up as a new device

If I want to you both my Mac desktop and new Mac air laptop should I transfer the information so they are the same or set up the new laptop as a new computer without the transfer?


Posted on Oct 20, 2023 11:40 PM

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Posted on Oct 20, 2023 11:55 PM

flip274 Said:

"I want to copy information from a Mac to a laptop. I want to use both Mac desktop and laptop. Is this possible or should I just set the new laptop up as a new device If I want to you both my Mac desktop and new Mac air laptop should I transfer the information so they are the same or set up the new laptop as a new computer without the transfer?"

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Transferring from a Mac:

A transfer is not required, unless instructed otherwise (i.e. y family or school). But, is this laptop a Mac or a Windows PC? Whatever the device, when transferring you would do so using Migration Assistant: Transfer your Information to Mac from Another Computer or Device - Apple Support


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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Oct 20, 2023 11:55 PM in response to flip274

flip274 Said:

"I want to copy information from a Mac to a laptop. I want to use both Mac desktop and laptop. Is this possible or should I just set the new laptop up as a new device If I want to you both my Mac desktop and new Mac air laptop should I transfer the information so they are the same or set up the new laptop as a new computer without the transfer?"

-------


Transferring from a Mac:

A transfer is not required, unless instructed otherwise (i.e. y family or school). But, is this laptop a Mac or a Windows PC? Whatever the device, when transferring you would do so using Migration Assistant: Transfer your Information to Mac from Another Computer or Device - Apple Support


Oct 21, 2023 09:45 AM in response to flip274

Here is the process to do what you are trying to accomplish.

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.

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. I assume you will want to transfer everything. 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.

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I want to copy information from a Mac to a laptop. I want to use both Mac desktop and laptop. Is this possible or should I just set the new laptop up as a new device

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