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How to Transfer Files Without Deleting
Transferring files from one device to another is a common task, but it can be challenging to do so without deleting the original files. Whether you’re moving files from a computer to a USB drive or from one computer to another, there are several methods you can use to ensure that your files are safely transferred without any loss. Let’s explore these methods in detail.
Using External Storage Devices
One of the simplest ways to transfer files without deleting them is by using an external storage device, such as a USB drive or an external hard drive. Here’s how you can do it:
- Connect the external storage device to the source computer.
- Open the file explorer on the source computer and navigate to the folder containing the files you want to transfer.
- Highlight the files you want to transfer and drag them to the external storage device.
- Wait for the transfer to complete. You can check the progress by looking at the transfer speed or the estimated time remaining.
- Once the transfer is complete, safely eject the external storage device from the source computer and connect it to the destination computer.
- Copy the files from the external storage device to the destination computer’s desired location.
This method is straightforward and works well for transferring a small number of files. However, it can be time-consuming if you have a large number of files to transfer.
Using Cloud Storage Services
Cloud storage services, such as Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive, offer a convenient way to transfer files without deleting them. Here’s how you can use these services:
- Sign up for a cloud storage service and create an account.
- Upload the files you want to transfer to the cloud storage service.
- Download the files from the cloud storage service to the destination computer.
This method is particularly useful if you need to transfer files across different devices or locations. However, it requires an internet connection and may involve paying for additional storage space.
Using File Synchronization Tools
File synchronization tools, such as SyncToy and Allway Sync, can help you transfer files without deleting them by keeping two folders in sync. Here’s how you can use these tools:
- Install a file synchronization tool on both the source and destination computers.
- Create a new synchronization task and select the source and destination folders.
- Configure the synchronization settings, such as the synchronization frequency and the type of synchronization (one-way or two-way).
- Start the synchronization process and wait for it to complete.
This method ensures that any changes made to the files in the source folder are automatically reflected in the destination folder. However, it requires both computers to be connected to the internet and may consume a significant amount of bandwidth.
Using Network File Sharing
Network file sharing allows you to transfer files between computers on the same network without deleting them. Here’s how you can set up network file sharing:
- Enable file sharing on both the source and destination computers.
- Open the file explorer on the source computer and navigate to the folder containing the files you want to transfer.
- Right-click on the folder and select “Properties.” Go to the “Sharing” tab.
- Click “Share” and select the users you want to share the folder with.
- On the destination computer, navigate to the network location of the shared folder and copy the files to the desired location.
This method is useful for transferring files between computers on the same network. However, it requires both computers to be connected to the same network and may not work if the computers are not on the same local network.
Using File Transfer Software
File transfer software, such as FileZilla and WinSCP, can help you transfer files without deleting them by using FTP (File Transfer Protocol). Here’s how you can use these tools:
- Install a file transfer software on both the source and destination computers.
- Connect to the destination computer using the file transfer software.
- Copy the files from the source computer to the destination computer.
This method is particularly useful for transferring large files or multiple files. However, it requires both computers to be connected to the internet