I have a new laptop running Windows Vista and want to transfer files and programs from my present PC, which runs XP SP2. I assume that a cable will be necessary to connect the two machines. Should I run both machines for a while to familiarise myself with Vista? I also intend staying with my current ISP and understand that I will need some help from them to enable the service on my new laptop. Geoff Cadman
There are several programs traditionally used to migrate between PCs. The main ones include Eisenworld's Aloha Bob PC Relocator Ultra Control (which can move programs) and Detto's cheaper IntelliMover (which can't). Microsoft helped by adding a Files and Settings Transfer Wizard to the System Tools folder in Windows XP.
Today, your best bet is Vista's built-in Windows Easy Transfer, which is based on Aloha Bob. However, to move programs, you will also need to download the Windows Easy Transfer Companion (Beta) from Microsoft. The Vista team has produced a step-by-step guide to using WET, while Windows Networking.com provides a walkthrough with many more screen grabs. Note that some programs, such as antivirus software and firewalls, should not or cannot be moved.
Windows Easy Transfer and other products can transfer files via various cables, a network or by writing the data to an external hard drive or a CD. Some companies now market USB cables to do the job, such as Belkin's Easy Transfer Cable for Windows Vista. Microsoft allows suppliers to include its transfer software on a CD.
I don't think Vista requires much familiarisation for XP users, since you can handle the unfamiliar bits by using the numerous built-in help routines. Also, if there are elements you don't like, you can often revert to a more XP-like way of doing things by selecting Classic mode. CNet TV has a short video, Make Windows Vista look like XP. For forward-looking users, the same CNet reporter has done Turn XP into Vista for free.
Vista does not require any setting up for an internet connection, and ISP software is best avoided: just plug into a standard Ethernet router. If you have the misfortune to use a USB modem, it would be better to junk it. Vista always prefers to use the latest IPv6 version of the Internet Protocol, but if that causes problems, you can set it to prefer IPv4 (Configuration guide).
