Migrate Data from an Old Mac to a New Mac

When setting up a new Mac, there is an option to migrate your old data, so that all of your settings and files are just how you remember them. This guide details how to migrate your data from your old Mac to a new Mac.

Prerequisites: Must have an old and new Mac Computer with software newer than OSX 7, Old Mac must be named in its settings

Difficulty Level: Member • Nerd • Platypus 

Estimated Time: 2-6 Hours

Expected Outcome: All data from the old Mac will be transferred onto the new one

Tools Required: Migration Assistant, a Thunderbolt, Ethernet, or FireWire Cable

Steps to Perform 

1. Connect the cable from your old Mac to your new Mac.
   1. If you are unable to find a cable, you can use Wi-Fi. In this case, ensure you are on the same Wi-Fi network on both computers.
2. On the new Mac, make sure you are at the step to transfer data from an old Mac. If you are unsure how to get to this step, follow this guide.
3. On the old Mac, open Launchpad and navigate to the "other" folder. Find Migration Assistant and open it.
   1. Click Continue
   2. Enter your administrator password if prompted. In most cases, this should be the account password.
   3. Click OK.
4. Click "To a New Mac"
   1. Click Continue
5. On your new Mac, Migration Assistant will be looking for a source. You should find your old computer here. Select it.
   1. Click Continue
6. A security code should show on both screens. Confirm that this is the same code on both screens.
   1. Click Continue
7. On your new Mac, select the files, settings, apps, and other information that you would like to transfer.
   1. Click Continue.
8. The Mac should start transferring data. This will take a while, so be sure the power cords are connected.