Vista RC1-Restore Files from XP Backup?

[Guest]

I'm trying to migrate from XPsp2 (on one machine) to Vista RC1 on another. I
used the XP machine's Backup/Restore program to create a backup of
'everyone's' data files onto an external hard drive. When I plug the hard
drive into the Vista machine, Vista can see the backup file on the drive.
When I launch Vista's Backup and Restore Center, however, Vista cannot see
the XP's backup file. When I follow the link for "How do I restore files
from backups made using a previos version of Windows," it goes to a generic
Vista site. My searches of the knowledge base have been fruitless. My
searches of the Vista newsgroup reveal that several people have similar
problems, but I don't see any replies with definitive guidance.

So, how do I get my data files from XP to Vista RC1? Is there a 'good' KB
article? Has someone written something good on this topic already? I have
the original XP machine and files, still. I prefer to just bring in the
data, and not really the old XP settings, if possible. I'm willing to start
over, but need help with the approach.

(Likewise, I need to bring over my Outlook data files from the XP ruinning
OL2007 to Vista running OL2007, if there are any suggestsions on that.)

 

[Jill Zoeller [MSFT]]

Hi OneDave,

At some point we will release a Vista-compatible reader for NTBackup files
created in Windows XP. Unfortunately it is not yet available, and the
NTBackup files made in XP are not readable by the Vista Backup program.


Have you considered using the Windows Easy Transfer program? I actually just
ran this myself yesterday to move files from my XP laptop to my new Vista
system. Worked like a charm. There is an advanced options page where you can
choose specifically what you want to move (files, settings, etc.)

 

[John Barnes]

Also you could just drag and drop them onto the external hard drive and
reverse that on Vista. That's how I did with the few files I wanted to
bring over. You should be able to export your outlook data to the drive and
import it into Vista outlook.

 

[Guest]

Thanks, Jill !

I was able to migrate data files successfully from my XP machine to my new
Vista machine. (I could have done settings, too, but didn't.)

For those who follow my footsteps, one thing I would add is that one should
not use the XP transfer program at all (Vista can't read it). The Vista
transfer program is needed on both machines. You have to copy or download it
to the XP machine. Run the Vista side first. It will give you a 'key.'
Then run the XP side. In my case, I had both machines on the same router and
the transfer software found and used it without me having to set anything up.

Thanks again,
Dave
------------------------------------

Hi OneDave,

At some point we will release a Vista-compatible reader for NTBackup files
created in Windows XP. Unfortunately it is not yet available, and the
NTBackup files made in XP are not readable by the Vista Backup program.


Have you considered using the Windows Easy Transfer program? I actually just
ran this myself yesterday to move files from my XP laptop to my new Vista
system. Worked like a charm. There is an advanced options page where you can
choose specifically what you want to move (files, settings, etc.)