Question Transferring programs from old HDD to new HDD with fresh Windows 10 install ?

[i6pwr]

I have another thread regarding my system not booting, I didn't want to include this topic on that thread.

My old C drive is having issues, likely out of storage among other possible problems. I installed a new, larger drive but I need my old programs moved into this drive.

I do have a backup made a few months ago, along with keeping the problem drive, I really only need my desktop and downloads but my question is can I transfer them and return to normal usage or would I need to revisit every website and download the programs again?

I know I didn't word that correctly but I basically want to somehow clone my old drive into this one in regards to my added programs.

I may be overthinking this as a simple copy/paste is likely the answer but do I need to open and extract the files on the new HD in addition to simply copying the files. Sorry if this is basic practice.

 

[steveb1976]

if you have Macrium . you could clone the drive.. but if the old drive is having issues. it might not clone properly. or if its a windows system issue, you might take that issue across to new system..
your best best is to save to cope the downloads to a usb stick or external drive and add them to new system (make sure you run "antivirus" before you move them and after...

if the desktop stuff are apps that are running , you would need to right click on the apps shortcuts and see where they are located. and then copy that folder..
****important part following**** have a pen and pad handy with you.. write down exactly where you copied that folder from.. as you would need to add it into the same folder on new setup.., you can copy the shortcut as well., or make new one once folder is copied to new system...... do this for all desktop items you cop..

i hope this is helpful

 

[USAFRet]

I have another thread regarding my system not booting, I didn't want to include this process on that thread.

My old C drive is having issues, likely out of storage among other possible problems. I installed a new, larger drive but I need my old programs moved into this drive.

I do have a backup made a few months ago, along with keeping the problem drive, I really only need my desktop and downloads but my question is can I transfer them and return to normal usage or would I need to revisit every website and download the programs again?

I know I didn't word that correctly but I basically want to somewhat clone my old drive into this one in regards to my added programs.

I may be overthinking this as a simple copy/paste is likely the answer but do I need to open and extract the files on the new HD in addition to simply copying the files. Sorry if this is basic practice.

Your personal files can be copied over.

The applications cannot.

When an application is installed, it makes dozens or hundreds of entries in the Registry and elsewhere.
Your new OS knows nothing about these.

Reinstallation.

 

[Bob.B]

I have another thread regarding my system not booting, I didn't want to include this topic on that thread.

My old C drive is having issues, likely out of storage among other possible problems. I installed a new, larger drive but I need my old programs moved into this drive.

I do have a backup made a few months ago, along with keeping the problem drive, I really only need my desktop and downloads but my question is can I transfer them and return to normal usage or would I need to revisit every website and download the programs again?

I know I didn't word that correctly but I basically want to somehow clone my old drive into this one in regards to my added programs.

I may be overthinking this as a simple copy/paste is likely the answer but do I need to open and extract the files on the new HD in addition to simply copying the files. Sorry if this is basic practice.

Clone old to new worst case it does not work and you wasted a little time.

 

[ex_bubblehead]

There are no known free tools to do this. However, there are 2 paid (not necessarily cheap) packages that may suit your needs. They are Application Mover and Desktop DNA. They don't move everything in existence however.