: Open the Windows Backup app from the Start menu. Select the folders (Documents, Pictures, etc.), apps, and settings you want to move. Click "Back up" to sync these to your Microsoft account via OneDrive.
Security-sensitive apps (like banking software, password managers, Adobe Creative Cloud, and Microsoft 365) will recognize the hardware change and prompt you to log in again.
Before cloning, delete temporary files, uninstall software you no longer use, and run a disk cleanup. This reduces the image size and speeds up the transfer process. Step 2: Clone the Drive transfer windows 11 to new computer updated
Ensure you are signing into both computers with the same Microsoft Account. This enables license transfers and syncs settings automatically [1].
Click on in the left sidebar, then select Your info . : Open the Windows Backup app from the Start menu
| Problem | Solution | |--------|----------| | “Windows not activated” after transfer | Run slui 4 → call automated phone activation | | New PC won’t boot after clone | Boot from Windows USB → Repair → Startup Repair | | Missing drivers after clone | Use USB tethering to get network driver, then run Windows Update | | Can’t find product key | Use ProduKey (NirSoft) or check Microsoft account digital license |
❌ – Different chipset, storage controller, TPM will cause BSOD. ❌ Do not assume OEM license transfers – It doesn’t. ❌ Do not use unknown “Windows transfer tools” from shady sites – Many contain malware. Step 2: Clone the Drive Ensure you are
To stay compliant and avoid conflicts, you should remove the license from the old PC. Open Command Prompt as Administrator on the old PC.
Navigate to the tab and ensure the newly installed drive is set as Boot Option #1 .
Click . Microsoft will deactivate the license on your old machine and instantly apply it to your new PC. Important Post-Transfer Checklist