A promising development: While tech companies might push for a full reliance on cloud storage and online services, many users still favor local network file sharing. Acknowledging these dedicated “offline” users, Microsoft is planning to bring back a feature that first appeared in the Windows ecosystem sixteen years ago.
Once upon a time, Windows 7 users enjoyed seamless file and folder transfers between PCs through the “Windows Easy Transfer” tool. Unfortunately, Microsoft eliminated this helpful feature – along with several others – in later Windows versions, redirecting its focus to OneDrive and other cloud platforms for file and data migration.
Fortunately, it seems the Easy Transfer tool may soon make a return with an upcoming update to Windows 11. Notable Windows Insider build explorer “phantomofearth” recently shared images showcasing a new Windows Migration flow within the Backup app, now featuring an option for transferring files to a new PC over a local network.
The Windows Backup app now facilitates transferring files, apps, settings, and even credentials to another PC via a local WiFi network, enabling users to set up their new devices more efficiently. This process requires entering a passcode on the receiving PC – a logical security measure for any platform.
Here’s a glimpse of the Windows Migration flow in the latest Dev build, 26200.5600 (also in Beta 26120.3964). This is found within the Backup app, rather than the UI revision seen earlier this year. pic.twitter.com/rwImzRJoJE
– phantomofearth 🌳 (@phantomofearth) May 13, 2025
Phantomofearth mentions that the latest Windows Dev build (26200.5600) includes this new migration flow, which is also visible in Beta 26120.3964. Many long-time Windows users, particularly fans of Windows 7, have welcomed the revival of this Backup feature, closely resembling the original Easy Transfer utility.
Presently, the Windows Backup app allows migration to OneDrive, which offers just five gigabytes of complimentary storage. The addition of a direct local PC transfer option will surely appeal to many users, though it still lacks an offline solution. Some users desire the ability to copy data using an external USB drive, as local networks can occasionally be unreliable.
Additionally, third-party backup tools exist for transferring data between systems. While Macrium Reflect Free has limitations as trialware, alternatives like Veeam Agent, Paragon Backup & Recovery, and Hasleo Backup provide comprehensive features that surpass those of Windows Backup.