How to Transfer Windows Files Using an External Drive

Learn the most efficient method to move your Windows files to an external storage drive, including formatting and file management instructions.

  1. Connect the external drive. Insert your external drive into an available USB port on your computer. If the drive is new, Windows may prompt you to format it; choose NTFS for optimal performance and compatibility with Windows file permissions.
  2. Open File Explorer. Press the Windows key + E to launch File Explorer. Locate your external drive in the left-hand sidebar under 'This PC' to confirm it is recognized by the system.
  3. Select files and folders. Navigate to the folder containing the files you wish to move. Hold the Ctrl key to click multiple individual files, or press Ctrl + A to select all items within the current directory.
  4. Copy or cut the selection. Press Ctrl + C to copy the files, or Ctrl + X if you intend to move them and delete the originals from the internal drive. The items are now held in the system clipboard.
  5. Paste items to the external drive. Click on your external drive icon in the File Explorer sidebar to open its root directory. Press Ctrl + V to paste the selected files into the drive.
  6. Safely remove the hardware. Right-click the external drive icon in the sidebar and select 'Eject'. Wait for the Windows notification stating that it is safe to remove the hardware before unplugging the device.

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