How to Move Software From One PC to Another

The fastest way depends on what software you own

Moving software from one PC to another is not the same as copying a folder. Most programs need to be installed fresh on the new machine, but you can transfer your settings, files, and licenses without starting from scratch. The method you use depends on whether you own the software outright, whether it came with a license key, and whether the publisher allows reinstalls.

For programs you purchased or downloaded, you will usually reinstall on the new PC using the original installer or your account login. For built-in Windows programs and settings, Windows offers a migration tool. For programs that came with your old PC, you may not be able to move them at all — they may be tied to that machine or require a new purchase.

Key Takeaways

Most paid software requires you to reinstall on the new PC using your license key or account login, not copy the program files.
Windows Migration Assistant can move your user files, settings, and some built-in programs to a new PC automatically.
Subscription software like Microsoft 365 and Adobe Creative Cloud moves with your account — sign in on the new PC and it downloads automatically.
Free programs from the Microsoft Store or third-party sites can often be reinstalled by downloading them again on the new machine.
Software that came bundled with your old PC (trial versions, OEM software) usually cannot be moved and may require a new license.

Using Windows Migration Assistant for files and settings

If you are moving from one Windows PC to another, the easiest starting point is Windows Migration Assistant. This tool transfers your user account, files, settings, and some programs to the new machine. You run it on both the old and new PC, and it handles the transfer over your network.

On your old PC, read Windows Migration Assistant from Microsoft's website, run it, and choose "I want to send items from this PC." On the new PC, run the same tool and choose "I want to receive items." The tool will show you what it can move — your Documents, Pictures, Music, Desktop, and user settings. It will also move some built-in Windows programs and Microsoft Store apps. After the transfer finishes, your new PC will have a copy of your user account with your files and preferences in place.

This method does not move programs you installed from outside the Microsoft Store. For those, you will need to reinstall them separately on the new PC.

Reinstalling purchased software with a license key

Programs you bought — whether on disc, read, or as a subscription — usually require reinstallation on the new PC. The process depends on the type of license.

If you have a license key (a code like XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX), read the installer from the publisher's website or use the original disc. Run the installer on the new PC, enter your license key when prompted, and the program will set up. Keep your license key in a safe place; you will need it if you ever reinstall again. Do not share it — one key typically works on only one PC at a time.

If the program uses account-based licensing (like Microsoft 365, Adobe Creative Cloud, or Autodesk products), you do not need a key. Sign into your account on the new PC, and the program will read and set up automatically. You can usually have the software installed on two or three devices at once, depending on the publisher's terms. Check your account page to see how many devices you have active.

Moving subscription software and cloud-based programs

Subscription software is the easiest to move because it lives in your account, not on your PC. Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, Outlook), Adobe Creative Cloud (Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere), Autodesk (AutoCAD, Revit), and similar services all work this way.

On the new PC, go to the publisher's website, sign into your account, and read the installer. Run it, and the software will set up using your account credentials. Your settings, preferences, and cloud-stored files will sync automatically. You do not need to find a license key or worry about moving files — everything is tied to your login.

If you have multiple devices, check your account settings to see how many are currently active. Most subscriptions allow two to five simultaneous installs. If you have hit the limit, you can deactivate the old PC from your account page, which frees up a slot for the new one.

Transferring free programs and Microsoft Store apps

Free programs from the Microsoft Store (like Paint, Notepad, or Snipping Tool) move automatically if you use Windows Migration Assistant. If you did not use the migration tool, you can reinstall them by opening the Microsoft Store on the new PC, searching for the program by name, and clicking Install.

Free programs from third-party websites (like VLC, 7-Zip, Audacity, or Firefox) must be reinstalled manually. Go to the publisher's website, read the installer for the new PC's architecture (32-bit or 64-bit — check your system settings if you are unsure), and run it. Most free programs do not require a license key, so installation is straightforward.

If you used a free program on the old PC and want to keep your settings on the new one, check whether the program stores settings in a cloud account or in a local folder. Some programs let you export settings as a file that you can import on the new PC. Look in the program's preferences or settings menu for an export or backup option.

Software you cannot move and what to do instead

Some software cannot be moved to a new PC. This includes trial versions, OEM software (programs that came bundled with your old PC), and programs with hardware locks.

Trial software is licensed for a single machine and a set time period. You cannot move it to a new PC — the trial period is tied to the old machine. If you want to use the program on the new PC, you will need to purchase a full license or start a new trial if the publisher allows it.

OEM software (like Windows Home Edition or antivirus programs that came preinstalled) is usually licensed only for the PC it came with. You cannot transfer it to a new machine. If you need the same software on the new PC, you will have to purchase a separate license.

Hardware-locked software is rare but exists in some professional and security tools. These programs are tied to your old PC's hardware and will not run on a new machine. Contact the publisher to see whether you can transfer the license or whether you need to purchase a new one.

Backing up your data before the move

Before you start moving software, back up your important files. Use an external hard drive, USB stick, or cloud storage (OneDrive, Google Drive, Dropbox) to copy your Documents, Pictures, Videos, and Desktop folders. This protects you if something goes wrong during the transfer.

If you use cloud storage, your files may already be synced. Check whether your Documents or Pictures folders are linked to OneDrive or another service. If they are, your files will be available on the new PC as soon as you sign into your account.

For programs that store data locally (like Outlook, QuickBooks, or specialized design software), export your data to a file before you move. Most programs have an Export or Backup option in the File menu. Save the file to your external drive or cloud storage, then import it on the new PC after you reinstall the program.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I copy a program's folder from one PC to another instead of reinstalling?

Not reliably. Most programs store settings in Windows system folders and the registry, not just in their own folder. Copying the folder alone will usually result in a program that does not work or does not launch. Reinstalling is the correct method because it puts all the pieces in the right places.

What if I lost my license key for a program I own?

Check your email for a receipt or confirmation from the publisher. Many publishers let you retrieve your key by signing into your account on their website. If you cannot find it, contact the publisher's support team with proof of purchase — they can often resend it or help you reactivate on a new PC.

Do I need to uninstall software from my old PC before moving it?

No, but it is good practice. Uninstalling from the old PC frees up space and makes it clear which devices have active licenses. For subscription software, sign out of your account on the old PC before you sign in on the new one. This helps the publisher track which devices are using your license.

Will my program settings move to the new PC?

Windows Migration Assistant moves settings for built-in programs and Microsoft Store apps. For other programs, settings usually do not move automatically. After you reinstall, you may need to reconfigure preferences, toolbars, or keyboard shortcuts. Some programs let you export settings as a file — check the program's menu for an Export or Backup option.

Can I move software from a Windows PC to a Mac?

No. Windows and Mac programs are built differently and are not compatible. You will need to purchase Mac versions of the software you want to use. Some publishers offer cross-platform licenses (like Microsoft 365 or Adobe Creative Cloud) that include both Windows and Mac versions — check your account to see what you own.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.