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To bypass Migration Assistant during a Mac’s first setup, choose the option to set up the Mac as new or continue without transferring information. You can finish setup without importing data, then open Migration Assistant later if you decide to transfer files, apps, accounts, and settings.
How do I skip Migration Assistant on Mac?
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At the data-transfer screen in Setup Assistant, select the option to set up the Mac as new or continue without transferring information. Apple’s setup guidance lists this alongside choices to transfer from another Mac, a Time Machine backup or startup disk, or a Windows PC. The wording and screen order can vary by Mac model and macOS version. See Apple’s Mac setup instructions and iMac setup guide.
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Continue through the remaining setup screens. Create an account or sign in as prompted, and complete the other choices needed to start using the Mac.
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Choosing set up as new means information from another device is not automatically transferred. It does not remove Migration Assistant or prevent you from using it after setup.
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Can I set up my Mac as new and transfer later?
Yes. Apple says Migration Assistant can transfer documents, apps, user accounts, and settings from another Mac, a Windows PC, a Time Machine backup, or a startup disk or other storage device. Apple also says the process does not delete information from the old computer or replace macOS on the new Mac. Some account details, such as email, may need to be configured again in the mail app. See Apple’s Migration Assistant guidance.
How do I open Migration Assistant after setup?
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Open Applications > Utilities > Migration Assistant, or search for Migration Assistant with Spotlight. Apple also documents opening it from System Settings > General > Transfer or Reset.
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Choose the relevant transfer source and follow the prompts. The source device or backup may need to be available during the transfer. Apple’s current instructions are in its Migration Assistant guide and Mac help article.
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Choose a source and connection for a later transfer
| Transfer source | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Another Mac | Transfer over a wireless connection or connect the computers directly. Apple says a cable connection is often faster than wireless. |
| Time Machine backup or startup disk/storage device | Select the available backup or storage source in Migration Assistant and follow the prompts. |
| Windows PC | Choose the PC as the source and follow Migration Assistant’s instructions. |
For a direct Mac-to-Mac connection, Apple’s iMac instructions describe Thunderbolt or Ethernet, with an Ethernet adapter potentially needed depending on the computers’ ports. Check both Macs’ ports before choosing a cable or adapter; the appropriate connection depends on the devices. See Apple’s iMac setup guide and Migration Assistant guidance.
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What if the account already exists on the new Mac?
If the new Mac has an account with the same name as an account being transferred, Migration Assistant may ask whether to replace the account or rename the incoming one. Read that prompt carefully and choose based on whether you need to preserve the existing account’s data. Apple explains the account-conflict choice in its Migration Assistant instructions.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Work or school Mac setup may differ
A Mac managed by an organization can use a different setup flow. Apple documents Managed Migration Assistant for Macs registered in Apple School Manager or Apple Business and assigned to a device management service; in that configuration, the Restore pane cannot be hidden. If your Mac belongs to work or school, follow your organization’s setup instructions rather than assuming the personal-device screens will apply. See Apple’s Managed Migration Assistant documentation.
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