How to transfer programs from one computer to another?

Moving programs from one computer to another can be a bit complicated, so we're going to explain it in the simplest way possible. It's a process whose success depends on factors such as: the type of program to be transferred and the operating systems involved. In addition, there are several transfer methods, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

For example, you can try reinstalling the program on your new computer using the original installer and its license key (if you have one). Other times it is possible copy the installation folder from the old computer to the new one, but it doesn't always work. Other alternatives, such as migration of data or cloning disks, require specialized software. Let's dig deeper.

Is it possible to transfer programs from one computer to another?

If you've just bought a computer, you probably want to have your favorite programs on it without having to start from scratch. The good news is that in many cases, it is possible to transfer programs from one computer to another. Of course, It's not as simple as copying and pasting a folder with documents, photos or multimedia files. Why not?

It's true that some programs can be transferred without problems, but others require a complete reinstallation. This is because most applications are not just executable files. Rather, During installation they are integrated with the operating system, create registry entries, install dependencies, and save settings to specific locations. Therefore, copying and pasting them to the new computer is not enough to run them correctly.

So, before starting the process of transferring programs from one computer to another, you have to consider factors as the following:

• If the new computer uses the same version Windows, macOS, or Linux than your old computer.
• If there licenses, you will need to deactivate them on the old computer to activate the program on the new one.
• Some programs, such as video editors or video games, require additional components to be able to function.

Now let's look at the different methods you can use to transfer programs from one computer to another. In each case, We will tell you what types of programs you can transfer and the steps to do so.. However, remember that there are many factors involved, so the final result is not entirely guaranteed. Let's get started.

Reinstall programs manually

The safest and most effective way to transfer programs from one computer to another is to manually reinstall them on the new computer. Most computer programs have a installer (.exe or .app file) that you can download from its official website or third-party sites. Once downloaded, you just need to run it on the new computer and reinstall the program from scratch.

Now, if the program has a license or activator, make sure you have it with you. For paid software, look for emails with activation keys or log in to your developer account. This will ensure that you have the activation key or code and that you retain your user account. Only then can you uninstall the program on the old computer and then install and activate it on the new one.

Typically these programs (such as Adobe or Microsoft 365) save a configuration in the cloud. So when you log in with your email or credentials, everything will look like it did on your old computer.

Copy the installation folder (only for portable programs)

As we said, transferring programs from one computer to another is not as simple as copying and pasting a folder of files... except with the portable programs. Since they do not require installation, these applications can be easily transferred between computers. The only requirement to do so is that the program saves all your files in one folder, which you must locate and copy to a USB or external hard drive.

How to locate the portable program folder? On Windows, it is usually in C:/Program Files o C:/Program Files (x86); on macOS look in the folder Applications. Once located, copy the folder to a removable drive, including all subfolders and hidden files (if any). Then paste it on the new computer in the same location (e.g., Program files). However, keep in mind that this method does not work with most complex programs. For this, you can try other more advanced options.

Use specialized migration tools

As you can probably imagine, there are programs for everything, even for transferring programs from one computer to another. These specialized tools allow you to transfer multiple programs with their settings, all at once. One of these programs is Laplink PCmover, payment software capable of transferring programs, users and settings between Windows PCs.

There is also a free solution which, although with limitations, works very well to transfer programs from one computer to another. This is EaseUS Todo PCTrans, a transfer software that allows you to migrate 2 GB of data and up to 5 programs in its free version. If you want to try this option on Windows computers, follow these steps:

1. Download EaseUS Todo PCTrans software on both computers.
2. Next, connect the devices using a Wi-Fi network or Ethernet cable.
3. Open the application on the source computer and select the programs to transfer. The program itself scans the computer and displays a list of compatible installed applications to migrate.
4. Start the program migration following the instructions and that's it.

What if you clone the hard drive?

A final method for transferring programs from one computer to another is to clone the hard drive of the source PC. In previous posts we have already explained How to clone hard drive Windows 10 y How to clone HDD to SSD. This method is ideal if you want an exact copy of your operating system, programs and files. Please note that Both computers must have similar hardware so that the result presents the least amount of errors possible.

Several programs to clone hard drives. Some, like Macrium Reflect, have a free version and only work with Windows. Others, such as Acronis True Image, are compatible with Windows and macOS and require a subscription or payment. There are also cloning tools aimed at users with advanced knowledge, such as Clonezilla.

In all cases, you need to use one of these tools to make a copy of your hard drive. You will most likely need to backup your hard drive.Install specific drivers on the new computer after cloningThis way, you ensure that all programs will work properly on the new computer.