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jmahtani

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copying one system to another

Hello:
I just bought a new computer and want to transfer the contents of my old computer to my new one. I would appreciate if someone could provide me with some help on how to do this exactly?
I want to copy it in such a way so that once the contents are copied to my new machine and I reboot, the new machine looks exactly like the old one.
Appreciate,
J
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dew_associates
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tlik

I've used Norton Ghost and all fine, Dennis.
I know that way is not recommended, but many people successed !
Why don't you try ?

Go to www.ghosthelp.com for more info.
There's a trial version in 30 days, enough for you to transfer everything.
Or just do it, but I'm not sure :
Use Windows Startup disk to format your new drive and make it boot able (Format C:/s - or if it already formated, use : SYS A: C:).
Then copy the old MSDOS.SYS (has read-only;hidden;system attrib) overwrite the new one on your new drive.
Then copy all things in your old drive to new drive, except : IO.SYS and COMMAND.COM
You must re-install all hardware !
So you should boot in Safe Mode to do this.
Tlik, it is one thing to ghost a drive in order to restore a system, but it is entirely something else to suggest that a questioner intentionally do something that may render his system unusable or that may void any warranty OR that may violate the terms of any software licenses. Frankly, your suggestion is intolerable. If you want to play, play with someone else's machine, not a questioners machine, especially when what you suggest may prevent that person from returning here to repair the mess you have made. I don't mind your suggestions once in a while, but this is irresponsible!
Dennis
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Tlik - There is no way I am going to even try your second suggestion. Your first suggestion about trying ghosthelp.com may help, I am going to look into it. Thanks.
drew_associates - In your message, you've said that I can copy folder,favorites, etc...how do I that..do I need to connect the two systems via a cable? Can you give me some details?
Thanks,
J
J,

Typically people want to transfer over their documents folder, email records, cookies and favorites.

This can be done either of two ways depending on how much data is to be copied.

You can either copy to floppy and move it, or you can cable the two machines together (Direct Cable Connection) and transfer that way.

Let me know which browser and email versions you were using on the old machine and I'll post the export technique for you.
dew_associates: Thanks for replying. I would prefer to cable the two machines together and transfer files, directories, etc between the two. Can you tell what cable I need and how to do it? I am using AOL for my browser and email. I can reinstall AOL, not a problem at all. Please let me know.
Thanks,
J
Okay, you will need a Null Modem Serial Crossover Cable. Your computers already have the necessary software, you only need to install the features.

When you have the cable let me know and I'll walk you through the process.
dew_associates: Got the cable. Can you give me some details on how to proceed.
Thank you, J
Okay, first and foremost, Win98 comes with wizard help for these things in case you get lost. Click Start, Help and search on Direct Cable Connection.

1. Connect the cable to each computer via an open serial (COM) port. Make sure that you select the correct one and that it is available through windows and not in use by a modem or other device.

2. On each machine, go into control panel, add/remove software and click on windows setup. Now double click Communications and select Direct Cable Connection.

3. On each machine, you will need to implement networking through control panel. here you should use the wizard if possible. In any event, go to control panel, networking.

In here, you will need to make sure that you use the Client For Microsoft Networks.

Click the identification tab. You will need to make sure that the Computer Name is different for both machines as well as the description, but the workgroup must be the same for both machines.

Next, click the File and Print Sharing button and choose both boxes. This will force a reboot and the installation of networking files.

You should now have a network neighborhood on both desktops. Clicking it should show you your PC as well as the other.