How to Transfer Between 2 Hard Drives
Transferring files between separate hard drives is much like transferring files to different locations on a single hard drive. Whether both hard drives are internal, both are external or you have one of each, the hard drives will always show up in the "Computer" folder. The default action in Windows for file transfers between hard drives is to make copies of the files, but if you choose, you can move the originals instead.
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1.
Connect an external hard drive to your computer (if that's what you want to use). If it has a USB connector, connect it to a USB port. If it has an eSATA connector, connect it to an eSATA port. Plug in its power connector to turn it on; your computer will recognize it automatically.
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2.
Open the "Computer" folder. It will usually be located on the desktop or in the Start screen/menu.
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3.
Right-click the hard drive icon containing the files you want to transfer and select "Open in New Window." Navigate to the folder containing the files and click and drag or press "Ctrl-A" to select them.
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4.
Click the "Computer" window and double-click the internal or external hard drive to which you'd like to transfer the files. Create a new folder or navigate to the folder where you want the files.
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5.
Click and drag the files you selected in step 3 into the folder. Press and hold the "Shift" key if you want to move the original files; don't press any key if you want to copy the files. Release the mouse button to transfer the files to the hard drive.
References
Warnings
- Information in this article applies to Windows 7 and 8. It may or may not differ from other versions.
Writer Bio
Daniel Hatter began writing professionally in 2008. His writing focuses on topics in computers, Web design, software development and technology. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in media and game development and information technology at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater.