September 24, 2026, 6:40 am | Read time: 2 minutes
Those replacing their old Windows PC with a new device will need to prepare for an important change. Microsoft is moving away from the previous PC-to-PC migration, where data and account settings could be transferred directly over the local network.
Instead, the company is now relying on Windows Backup in conjunction with OneDrive. The change was announced in the Windows 11 update KB5124010.
Migration only via the Cloud
With Windows Backup, files, settings, and even some apps can be restored on a new computer. However, a Microsoft account is required. Additionally, the relevant data must have been previously synchronized with OneDrive.
This is where the catch lies. While the previous migration worked locally, data is now first uploaded to the cloud and then downloaded to the new device.
Free storage quickly becomes insufficient
OneDrive offers only five gigabytes of free storage by default. For many users, this won’t be enough. Photo collections or document archives often exceed this limit significantly.
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Those needing more storage will have to opt for a paid plan. Alternatively, the classic backup via external hard drive or USB stick remains an option. Microsoft has yet to provide a specific reason for ending local PC-to-PC migration. The decision is surprising and is likely to frustrate users who prefer to operate without cloud connectivity.