Transferring files between two PCs is tedious work that we have to do sporadically, and, if you own a Windows machine, the process is about to change. That’s because Microsoft is discontinuing Windows 11’s PC-to-PC migration tool, a feature inherited from Windows 7 that was designed to transfer files and selected settings directly between computers over a local Wi-Fi or LAN. The company is now directing users toward Windows Backup, which relies on OneDrive for file synchronization and restoration.
The PC-to-PC tool was introduced gradually and remained relatively unknown to many Windows 11 users. It was integrated into the Windows Backup application and allowed users to connect two PCs using a one-time code before selecting which files and folders to transfer.
Unlike OneDrive, the local migration process did not require cloud storage. Files moved directly between the two computers, meaning users were not limited by the 5GB of free OneDrive storage included with a Microsoft account. This could be particularly useful when transferring large collections of photos, videos, documents, or other files.
The tool could also transfer certain Windows settings, including elements such as wallpapers and themes. However, it had limitations: installed applications, saved passwords, and sign-in credentials were not transferred and had to be restored or reinstalled separately.
The PC-to-PC transfer tool worked over a local network and did not require OneDrive. (Image: WindowsLatest)
Microsoft has now updated its support documentation to state that “PC-to-PC Migration is no longer available.” The company explains that the feature had been introduced through a phased rollout before being withdrawn.
Windows Backup offers a different approach. Settings can be restored from a backup associated with a Microsoft account, while files are synchronized through OneDrive. This makes cloud storage an important part of the process and means users with limited OneDrive capacity may need additional storage for larger transfers.
Restoring a Windows 11 24H2 backup on version 23H2 using OneDrive-powered Windows Backup (Image: WindowsLatest).
The local tool was tested by Windows Latest in July 2025, when it began appearing alongside monthly Windows updates. Its design was reminiscent of Windows Easy Transfer, a utility available in earlier versions of Windows that helped users migrate data between PCs.
With Microsoft removing the local option, users setting up a new Windows 11 computer are now encouraged to use Windows Backup and OneDrive for transferring files and restoring supported settings. The change simplifies Microsoft’s migration strategy but removes an option that allowed users to transfer substantial amounts of data without relying on cloud storage.
Filed in . Read more about Microsoft, Onedrive and Windows 11.