Microsoft Tests Then Deprecates PC-to-PC Migration in Windows 11 Preview

In July 2025, Microsoft tested a PC-to-PC migration feature in a Windows 11 preview build. The feature was based on the Windows Backup app and could migrate an entire hard drive's data to a new computer. Microsoft subsequently updated its documentation, confirming that the migration feature had been deprecated. The feature was tested for about a year and never entered the general release version of Windows 11.

The migration feature did not support a complete system migration to a new PC; in practice it supported only the migration of personal files. Users could migrate personal files, settings and some personalization settings, but could not migrate installed applications, OneDrive files, saved passwords or login credentials. Although Windows Backup could move an entire hard drive's data, it could move only files, and could not migrate registry entries, settings and credentials generated by software. Users therefore could not complete a full machine migration with the feature.

After deprecating the migration feature, Microsoft listed Windows backup and restore as an alternative in its documentation. That method can back up specified folders, system settings and some account information to a Microsoft account, and users can restore the data after signing in to the same Microsoft account on a new computer. Users can also use OneDrive to back up files in folders such as Desktop, Documents and Pictures, and restore them on a new computer through OneDrive. Both Windows Backup and OneDrive rely on cloud backup and require a Microsoft 365 subscription, otherwise storage space is insufficient.