This article discusses using OneDrive as your location to save data from your computer for transfer to a new computer.

I am getting a new computer. How do I save data from my existing computer and transfer to my new computer?

Using OneDrive to Transfer Data to a New Computer

OneDrive is a powerful cloud storage tool available to all YSU Faculty, Staff, and Students. Specifically, if you are looking to transfer your data to another computer, you can use OneDrive to transfer your data from one computer to another. This is important for students who are purchasing a new computer or YSU faculty and staff that may be due for refresh or upgrade. 

Saving Data From Your Current Computer
Accessing Data on Your New Computer

Saving Data From Your Current Computer

On your computer, take the following steps:

1. Open the OneDrive Folder. Click the blue cloud icon located in the bottom-right corner of your screen (near the date and time). Then, click Open Folder to access your OneDrive directory.

2. Organize Your Backup.  Your OneDrive folder will now open. This is where you’ll save your data. You can move, copy, or drag files and folders into this location.
As a best practice, create a dedicated folder for your backup. In Windows 11:

• Click New at the top left.
• Select Folder.
• Name the folder something descriptive, such as Computer Backup 61125 (using today’s date for reference).

3. Move Your Files. In this example, I will open the newly created folder (e.g., Computer Backup 61125). Move or copy your important files into this folder. In this example, I have created a Word Document named Important Document, I will drag and drop Important Document into the folder as shown below.

4. Verify Upload Status. Windows displays a Status column for OneDrive files. Ensure each file shows a green check mark, indicating a successful upload.

Note: Upload time may vary depending on the number and size of files and your Internet connection speed. Wait until all files show the green check mark before proceeding.

Accessing Data on Your New Computer

1. Access OneDrive. On your new device, click the blue cloud icon and select Open Folder to access your OneDrive.

2. Retrieve Your Files. Navigate to the backup folder you created (e.g., Computer Backup 61125). You can now open or transfer your files as needed.

Important: New computer deployments at YSU come with OneDrive sync enabled by default. This automatically backs up your Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders to OneDrive.

Please see additional resources below:

Manually upload and Save Files using the web version of OneDrive: OneDrive: Upload and save files and folders to OneDrive
OneDrive Sync Settings: OneDrive: Sync and Backup Settings

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If you have any questions, please reach out to IT Training Services.