Microsoft Removes PC-to-PC Migration from Windows 11 and Pushes OneDrive, Whether You Like It or Not

If you have been planning to move your files to a new Windows 11 PC without relying on OneDrive, there is some bad news. The company has removed its PC-to-PC Migration feature, leaving users with a cloud-based alternative that comes with a frustrating storage limit. We mentioned breifly about the same in our previous coverage of the KB5124010.

Windows 11 loses its direct PC migration feature

Microsoft confirmed the removal in the changelog for the KB5124010 update. The update notes that PC-to-PC Migration is no longer available and recommends Windows Backup for transferring supported files and settings.

The change applies to Windows 11 users via the October 2026 Patch Tuesday update, KB5127648. Interestingly, Microsoft introduced the feature through a phased rollout just over a year ago, giving users a straightforward way to move data between computers.

In case you are unaware, the tool transferred files directly over Wi-Fi or Ethernet. Users could select folders and move supported settings without uploading everything to cloud storage.

Windows Backup is the recommended alternative

Microsoft now recommends Windows Backup, which relies on OneDrive to sync supported folders and restore backed-up settings. The problem is that free Microsoft accounts receive only 5GB of OneDrive storage.

That limit could quickly become an issue for users with large photo libraries, documents, videos, and downloads. That said, PC-to-PC Migration had limitations of its own. It did not transfer installed applications, saved passwords, or certain system files, meaning users still needed to reinstall software separately.

Users can continue moving files manually using USB drives, external storage, or network shares. However, these options lack the same guided experience during PC setup.

Microsoft has not publicly explained why it removed the feature. The decision may frustrate users who prefer local transfers or do not want to pay for additional cloud storage.

via: Windows Latest