File and setting transfer corporate

[manders1]

In the process of deploying a new laptop to replace a desktop. After logging in as user to run outlook I need to transfer files and settings from the old desktop without bothering the user. I can backdoor into the users desktop and grab the files needed but not everything will copy over due to the files being used.

What is the most efficient way to move files and settings from one machine to the next?

 

[linney]

FILE & SETTINGS TRANSFER

http://aumha.org/win5/a/fast.htm

Using the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard in Windows XP

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/setup/expert/crawford_november12.mspx

 

[manders1]

Thank-You for the reply. I have looked at the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard in Windows XP but that requires that I touch the users old PC. I work in a law firm and I am trying to find a way without touch the old PC.

 

[linney]

Windows User State Migration Tool (USMT) Version 3.0.1

http://www.microsoft.com/download/en/details.aspx?id=10837

I don't know whether either suggestions can be run remotely? I'm pretty sure somebody else would have to power up the old XP machine however.

 

[papadba]

With 2 (or more) test machines refine the process you want to use.

Then, bother the user(s). . . If the process is well done, they might even run it themself. Several of my clients do this off-hours to reduce the bother.

I'd rather get everything for one machine in the first shot and be done with it rather than deal with whatever surprises arise due to a "burp" in the "on the fly" transfer.

Just a thought<g>.

 

[manders1]

I will take another look at Windows User State Migration tool. Still I am trying to avoid touching the old machine until it is time to do the swap. In my experience I have found that when possible I like to involve the user as least as possible when it comes to things of this nature. Currently I just backdoor into the machine and copy over their favorites, desktop, My Documents, and misc folders.

 

[papadba]

I have found that when possible I like to involve the user as least as possible when it comes to things of this nature

Yup, for sure. . . but not always possible

copy over their favorites, desktop, My Documents, and misc folders.

So long as everyone follows the convention.


[Rant]
What i've seen more and more places is that their "standards" in this area are getting sloppier and sloppier. More and more "stuff" and less and less qualified "admins". Unfortunately, it is often the management (or people who have their ear) that will not conform and expect "all of their things" to be moved to the new system wherever they currently reside.
[/Rant]

Being a Migrant Data Worker (consultant/contractor) allows one to see things one would rather have not seen - and hear the nonsense to defend these "methods". . .