How to Transfer Programs From Dell Desktop to Dell Netbook
While having a netbook makes browsing the Internet away from home a much simpler process, it can also be frustrating when you have programs spread out across two computers. If you have a program or file on your Dell desktop that you also need on your Dell netbook, there are several ways to transfer them. Unfortunately, there are fewer options than when you are transferring between two full-sized computers, as most Dell netbooks do not include CD or DVD optical drives.
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Instructions
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USB Drive or Memory Card
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1
Insert a USB flash drive into the Dell desktop's USB port. If your Dell desktop has a built-in memory card reader you can instead connect a flash memory card, such as an SD card.
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2
Click "Open a Folder to View Files." Open Start > Computer. Navigate through the folders on your hard drive and locate the specific programs or files you want to transfer to the netbook.
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3
Click the file or folder and drag it over to the first window. Close both windows once the file transfers to the USB drive or memory card.
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4
Remove the USB drive or memory card and attach it to the corresponding port on the Dell netbook. Click "Open a Folder to View Files." Click the file you want to transfer and drag it to the desktop.
Crossover Cable
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Connect one end of the crossover cable to the Ethernet port on the Dell desktop. Attach the other end to the Ethernet port on the Dell netbook.
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Access the Start menu on the Dell netbook. Click Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center.
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Click "Unidentified Network." Click the "Turn on Network Discovery and File Sharing" radio button if a window appears warning that you cannot connect.
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Click the "No, Make the Network that I am Connected to a Private Network" radio button. Click "OK." Double-click the network icon that appears in the task bar at the lower-right end of the screen.
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Navigate through the Dell desktop computer's folders. Find the program you want to transfer. Click the file or folder and drag it over to your netbook's desktop.
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Tips & Warnings
Some Dell netbooks come with the Linux operating system instead of Windows Vista. The instructions for transferring files with an external drive or a crossover cable will vary for Linux systems. Check the manual that came with your netbook for specific instructions.
Crossover cables can be acquired in the networking section of electronics stores or office supply retailers.
To connect your desktop and netbook with a crossover cable, you must be logged in with an administrative account.
