# Set up a new computer and move my files over safely

A step-by-step plan to set up a new laptop or desktop, transfer files and apps, and wipe the old one safely.

- Topic: Personal Life & Wellbeing
- Framework: Few-Shot
- Level: Standard
- Tags: Email, Plan, Fill-in Template
- Source: https://www.thinkwithprompt.com/prompts/set-up-a-new-computer-and-move-my-files-over-safely

## Prompt

```text
Help me set up my new computer and move everything over from my old one.

**Old computer:** [make, Windows or Mac, roughly how old, still works yes/no]
**New computer:** [make, Windows or Mac]
**What I need to move:** [e.g. photos, documents, email, browser bookmarks and saved logins, printer, specific programs]
**How I use it:** [e.g. email, photos, video calls with family, banking, work, games]
**Plans for the old computer:** [keep / give to family / sell / recycle]
**Comfort with tech:** [low / medium / high]

Give me a plan in phases:
1. Before I start: back up the old computer, list the programs I use, find license keys or account logins I'll need (keep them private - don't paste them here), and make sure I can get into my main email account.
2. Setup: first-time setup choices explained simply (account type, privacy settings to consider, updates), and which options to decline if I'm unsure.
3. Moving files: the built-in transfer tools or cloud options for my combination of computers, with steps marked [CHECK ON MY COMPUTER].
4. Essentials: security updates, built-in security protection, backup, printer, and a browser setup.
5. Checking everything arrived: a short checklist.
6. Wiping the old computer: signing out of accounts and doing a full reset before it leaves my hands.

Warn me about common traps: fake download sites, "PC cleaner" pop-ups, and paying for extra software I don't need.
```

## What to fill in

- make, Windows or Mac, roughly how old, still works yes/no
- make, Windows or Mac
- keep / give to family / sell / recycle
- low / medium / high
- CHECK ON MY COMPUTER

Free to copy and use. From ThinkWithPrompt (https://www.thinkwithprompt.com/), a library of 2,663 curated AI prompts.