How to Transfer Files From an Old Computer to a New One Via the Internet

Use the Internet to quickly transfer files from an old computer to a new one.

Many people rely on portable media, such as CDs and flash drive, when they wish to transfer files from an old computer to a new one. This can be a time-consuming process with more steps than you may wish to perform. Fortunately there are other options involving the use of the Internet. If both computers are set up with Internet access, you can send files from your old PC to your new PC in a shorter amount of time.

Instructions

1. Transfer your files via email. However, many email programs accept a limited amount of information per message, so this method is ideal if the amount of information you are sending is small. Open your email program on your old computer and select "New" or "Compose." Attach the files to the message and send it to yourself. Open the message on your new computer and download the files. You can use free email service providers such as Yahoo mail, Google's Gmail and Windows Live.

2. Send files securely via File Transfer Protocol (FTP). This method involves installing FTP software on both computers and configuring them so that one computer acts as a server and the other acts as a client. Both computers must be on the same network and must have Internet access. Some FTP programs are free; these include FileZilla, Coffecup and SmartFTP (see Resources).

3. Use a file transfer service, such as Sendthisfile.com, Yousendit.com and Filesdirect.com (see Resources). File transfer services allow for larger files than you can send through email and eliminate the need to set up an FTP system. The service provider will email the files that you upload to the email address that you enter, and you can download them on your new computer. Expect to pay a subscription fee to use this service.

4. Store files on a file upload website. These websites are designed for file sharing, and the service is usually free. Examples of file upload websites include 2share.com, megafileupload.com and Sendspace.com. You can upload files from your old computer and download them on the new computer.

References

• University Information Technology Services: What is FTP, and how do I use it to transfer files?
• FilesDirect: Large file transfer overview

Resources

• FileZilla,
• Coffecup
• SmartFTP
• Sendthisfile.com
• Yousendit.com