How to Transfer Files Between Two Different Operating Systems

Here, on this page, we're going to share some thoughts on transferring everything from two different operating systems, whether it's on a dual-boot computer or between two computers. 

Here is a quick view of the full elements that you need to acquire for transferring files between two operating systems in Windows:

Why Need to Transfer Files Between Different Windows Systems

By utilizing a proper method, you can reach the goal of transferring data, files, folders, and applications from PC to PC, from PC to laptop, from PC to storage media, or even within one computer after doing an in-place operating system upgrade.

Why Is Windows Easy Transfer Not Recommended

In early Windows OS versions before Windows 10, there was an inbuilt tool - Windows Easy Transfer which could accomplish the most transfer tasks.

But there are some limitations when you choosing a transfer approach. For example, Windows Easy Transfer is not available in Windows 10, so whenever Windows 10 is involved, you have to give this tool up and go for an alternative Windows 10 easy transfer tool. Besides, it supports to move items in the following.

• User accounts
• Documents
• Music
• Pictures and videos
• e-mail
• Contacts and messages
• Internet favorites
• Program settings

EaseUS Editor's Suggestion

If you tend to transfer system personalization settings, like background settings and power settings, installed application software, and Windows programs, and even your favored games,  you have to say goodbye to the inbuilt tool forever. Turning to a reliable and professional PC file transfer software that supports transferring both files and programs between two computers is exactly what you need. EaseUS Todo PCTrans is designed to assist all Windows users in fulfilling these tasks in a handy way.

How to Transfer Files Between Two Different Operating Systems

Is there a free and comprehensive file transfer software that can fully replace the role of the Windows easy transfer, meanwhile, make up for its shortcomings? Yes, EaseUS Todo PCTrans Free comes to play. It is free to migrate files and apps from one computer to another in a few minutes.

How to Transfer files between two operating systems with the EaseUS transfer utility? There should be two answers.

• First, the file transfer happens to the same computer with two operating systems, i.e., a dual boot system.
• Second, it is for different computers, for example, one is running Windows 7 while the other is running Windows 10.
• Next, you will find solutions to both situations below.

Here we'll show you the first feature - PC-to-PC transfer, moving all your desired data, files, and content from your old PC to a new computer with are running two different operating systems:

Step 1. Select the transfer mode.

• Download and install EaseUS Todo PCTrans on both computers.
• Launch EaseUS Todo PCTrans on the PCs and choose "PC to PC". (The "PC to PC" feature transfer files based on the network connection. If your PCs are not on the same LAN, choose "Backup and Restore" instead.)
• Ensure your PCs meet the requirements of network-based transfer and click "Continue".

Step 2. Connect the two computers.

• Connect to the target PC, then input the account password or verification code of the target PC.
• Check the verification code on the right top of the "PC to PC" main screen on the target PC.
• Specify the transfer direction and click "Connect".

Step 3. Choose the files you want to transfer.

• Hover on the "Files" option and click "Edit".
• Check the files you want to transfer.
• If you want to change the default storage path, click the "Edit" icon.
• Afterward, click "Finish".

Step 4. Transfer files between two different operating systems.

• After selecting the files, click “Transfer” to start the transfer process.
• When it has done, click “OK” and you can go to check the files on the target PC.

Aside from network file transfer, EaseUS Todo PCTrans also facilitates file transfer between different operating systems, including via an image file, and transfer local applications. When your network connection is not stable, or you need to move C drive files, folders, and even programs to another drive, you can try these two features.

If you think this method indeed help you transfer files between two different Windows system computers, share this guide to help more of your friends to switch their computer to a new computer now:

An Important Tip

Neither of the transfer tools mentioned on this page supports data migration from a higher Windows version to a lower one. That is to say, you can  use any of the software to transfer data from Windows 10 to Windows 7/8/XP/Vista or from a 64-bit version of Windows to a 32-bit version of Windows.

Also, can the software transfer files across Windows platforms from Windows XP or Vista to Windows 7/8/8.1/10? No problem. Feel free to follow the guide above provided by EaseUS Todo PCTrans if you're in such a need.

FAQs About Transferring Files Between Two Different Windows Systems

Here we listed some hot topics about transferring files between two different computers running different OS, and if you are interested in, follow and find answers here:

1. How to transfer large files between computers?

If you prefer a manual way to transfer large files between computers, we suggest you first compress the large file and then use an external removable disk to copy and paste the file to the target computer.

If you want an easier resolution, EaseUS Todo PCTrans can seamlessly transfer your large file between computers via its PC-to-PC feature.

2. When should you transfer files between different operating systems?

Here is a list of situations in which you need to transfer files between two different systems:

• To share files between two computers
• To transfer and migrate files from the old computer to the new computer
• To switch work files between computers
• To free up space from the source computer by moving files to the new PC

3. Can I transfer files between Windows 10 and Windows 11 for free?

Yes, there are many ways that you can transfer files between Windows 10 and Windows 11 for free. Here is a list of methods that you can try:

1. #1. EaseUS Todo PCTrans Free
2. #2. Copy & Paste files via USB/External Disk
3. #3. Email
4. #4. Cloud drive - OneDrive, Dropbox, Google Drive, etc.
5. #5. Nearby Sharing (Windows 10/11)
6. #6. HomeGroup (Windows 7 or older)