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Before you turn on the new Mac
Have a reliable internet connection and access to the old computer or a current backup if you plan to transfer data. If you’ll use Migration Assistant between Macs later, Apple recommends installing available macOS updates on both computers first and connecting laptop Macs to power. Apple’s migration preparation guidance also says to turn off antivirus, firewall, or VPN software during the transfer if you use those tools; this is transfer-specific guidance, not a general requirement for setting up every Mac.
Choose a setup path in Setup Assistant
Follow the prompts when you turn on your Mac. Setup Assistant collects basic preferences and offers data-transfer choices. The exact prompts can vary by Mac model, region, and macOS version.
| Setup path | Best fit | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| Another Mac | You have the old Mac available and want to carry over files, accounts, settings, and eligible apps. | Transfer wirelessly over Wi-Fi or connect the computers directly. Apple says a direct Thunderbolt or Ethernet connection is often faster; an Ethernet adapter may be needed depending on the Macs’ ports. |
| Time Machine backup or startup disk | The old Mac is unavailable, but you have a backup or usable disk. | Select the source during initial setup or use Migration Assistant after setup. |
| Windows PC | You are moving from a PC. | Install the Windows Migration Assistant version that corresponds to the macOS on the new Mac. Apple’s setup guide says the PC needs Bluetooth and both computers must be on the same Wi-Fi network. |
| Nearby iPhone or iPad | You want to use an eligible device to bring over some settings and access content stored in iCloud. | This is not a complete migration of the Mac’s disk. For Apple’s cited setup instructions, the Mac must use macOS Sequoia 15.4 or later, and the nearby iPhone must use iOS 18.4 or later or iPad must use iPadOS 18.4 or later; Wi-Fi and Bluetooth must be enabled. Requirements can change, so check Apple’s current instructions. |
| Set up as new | You want a clean start or don’t have a source ready. | No data transfers automatically, but you can migrate later with Migration Assistant. |
Apple’s Setup Assistant guide describes these setup choices. Its nearby iPhone or iPad setup instructions give the device and software requirements.
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Transfer data now or later
During initial setup
If you choose to migrate in Setup Assistant, follow its prompts to select the source: another Mac, a Time Machine backup, a startup disk, or a Windows PC. For a Mac-to-Mac transfer, keep both computers powered and connected as directed on screen. A wireless transfer uses Wi-Fi; Apple says a direct Thunderbolt or Ethernet connection is often faster, though your Macs may need an adapter for Ethernet.
After you’ve already set up the Mac
You do not need to erase the new Mac to bring data over later. Open System Settings > General > Transfer or Reset, then choose the Migration Assistant option. The exact label or screen may differ with the macOS version. Apple’s Migration Assistant guide explains the transfer process.
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What Migration Assistant transfers
Apple describes the tool this way: “Migration Assistant transfers documents, apps, user accounts and settings from one Mac to another.” — Apple Support. During migration, you can select categories such as applications, user accounts, other files and folders, privacy and security settings, and system or network settings. For an account, you may also be able to select particular folders and content.
Migration Assistant does not erase the old Mac or replace macOS on the new one. It also cannot guarantee that every app will transfer or run: Apple says incompatible apps, or apps for which a newer version is already installed, may not be transferred or usable. Review the migration summary for items that could not transfer or software flagged as incompatible. Some email accounts may require you to sign in again in your mail app.
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Moving from Windows
Download the Windows Migration Assistant version that matches the macOS installed on the new Mac, then follow Apple’s transfer instructions. Apple’s setup guide specifies Bluetooth on the PC and a shared Wi-Fi network for the computers. Check that both devices are ready before starting so you can respond to prompts on each one.
Complete your personal settings
Setup Assistant may ask about privacy and accessibility, appearance, location services, Siri, and other preferences. Touch ID setup appears only on Macs with a supported sensor; prompts and availability also vary by model and region. You can change many choices later in System Settings, so choose what suits you now rather than assuming every prompt is permanent.
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Install or check your apps
First, check which apps migrated successfully and whether any were flagged as incompatible or superseded by newer versions. Migration Assistant moves eligible apps, but it does not guarantee compatibility. For apps that are missing or need an update, use the app’s official distribution channel and follow its current installation instructions. The exact steps depend on where the app comes from and the macOS version, so confirm those instructions with Apple or the app’s developer rather than assuming every app installs the same way.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Set up a backup with Time Machine
After setup, configure Time Machine to back up your Mac to an external hard disk or another supported storage destination. Apple recommends keeping the backup somewhere other than the Mac’s internal disk. An external hard drive for Mac Time Machine backup is one option; no particular capacity or model is required by the setup guidance.
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Time Machine backs up Mac files and can help restore them. iCloud, by contrast, syncs selected content across devices according to your settings; it does not back up the entire Mac. Apple explains this distinction in its Time Machine backup guide and iCloud backup and syncing overview.
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