Summary: In this blog, we shall discuss using Migration Assistant; an inbuilt utility to transfer files between different Mac systems. We will also share the methods to use the Migration Assistant tool efficiently.
However, we advise backing up the data before using Migration Assistant to avoid potential data loss in the process.
But again, don’t worry, if in case you have already lost the data while using Migration Assistant. Try Stellar Data Recovery tool for Mac – the best software for restoring lost or deleted data from Mac devices. Take a free trial to know more.
Contents
Migration Assistant is a utility in Mac that allows you to transfer data, apps, settings, user accounts, and documents from Mac to other computer or an external drive connected to the Mac. Currently, the application transfers only limited data; however, the Migration Assistant in the new macOS Monterey will transfer third-party data such as Outlook files. Even though the Migration Assistant is a highly useful application for file-transfer, there are instances of migration errors that result in loss of important data.
How to Use Migration Assistant Optimally?
As mentioned earlier, the Migration Assistant is a useful application; however, if used incorrectly, it can cost your precious photos, videos, and documents. Therefore, we have listed the steps for the optimal use of the application.
Perform Some Checks Prior to Proceeding
- Ensure that all the Apple and third-party software are up-to-date on both the Macs.
- Make sure that you are using OS X Snow Leopard v10.6.8 or later.
- Name your old Mac if it does not have one.
- Connect both the Macs to power.
Step 1: Connect the Computers to One Another using one of the Following.
- Wi-Fi or Ethernet
- Cable or Adapter
- Connect the Time Machine backup of the old Mac
Step 2: On the New Mac
- Open Utilities > Applications Folder > Migration Assistant and click Continue
- Select ?From a Mac, Time Machine backup, or startup disk? and click Continue
Step 3: On the Old Mac
- Open Migration Assistant and click Continue
- Select ?To another Mac? and click Continue
Step 4: On New Mac
- Select the appropriate device to transfer files when asked to ?select a Mac, Time Machine backup, or other startup disks?
- Click Continue and a security code will appear that has to be entered on the other Mac
Step 5: On Old Mac
- Ensure the security code matches with the one on the new Mac and click Continue
Step 6: On New Mac
- Select the old Mac and click Continue
- Select the data to transfer and click Continue
Caution: If the migration process is not executed in a proper fashion then it may lead to data loss situation.
What to Do If I Lose Files during Data Transfer Process:
If you visit any of the troubleshooting websites, you will realize that losing data while using Migration Assistant is common; however, this should not have you worried, as an alternative solution such as Stellar Data Recovery Professional for Mac will recover any data lost during the migration process. The software is compatible with macOS Ventura 13, Monterey 12, Big Sur 11, Catalina 10.15, and Mojave 10.14 . The software can recover data from all the known logical data loss scenarios including your deleted Time Machine backup.
Downlaod the Software for Free
Recovering Data from Mac after Migration Assistant Collapsed
Step 1: Install the software on your Mac; the one from which you have lost your data.
Step 2: Launch the software and select the hard drive from which you want to recover.
Step 3: Launch scan on the disk drive and wait for the successful completion.
Step 4: Preview the recoverable data including documents, videos, photos, emails, and audio
Step 5: Register the Stellar Data Recovery Professional for Mac software to save the recoverable data.
This completes the process of recovering data lost during migration.
Conclusion
Migration Assistant application is highly useful when transferring important data from your old Mac to the new; however, even with the release of the stable version a few years ago, users are facing problems that are leading to data loss. The loss of data is the most common problem associated with the use of the Migration Assistant. Nevertheless, this should not stop you from trying this highly useful utility as you can rely on Stellar Data Recovery Professional for Mac to recover your data if such a mishap takes place.
