desktop to laptop..................

[lancefiles]

I have just purchased a new laptop and so now i want to take everything from my desktop and copy it to my harddrive...(basically i want to clone the desktops drive to the laptops drive so when the laptop boots on it looks and works as if its the desktop) Is that possible or should i just go about it by installing all the programs to the laptop?

[EzyStvy]

From XP's Help file:

Using the Files and Settings Transfer WizardThe Files and Settings Transfer Wizard helps you move your data files and personal settings from your old computer to your new one, without having to go through much of the same configuration you did with your old computer. For example, you can take your personal display properties, folder and taskbar options, and Internet browser and e-mail settings from your old computer and place them on the new one. The wizard will also move specific files or entire folders, such as My Documents, My Pictures, and Favorites. Passwords are not moved with program settings when you use the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard. This is a feature of the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard that helps to keep your passwords confidential.

We recommend that you install a virus detection program on the new computer before transferring files over from the old computer. This can help protect your new computer from viruses that may be contained in the files transferred over from your old computer.

Open the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard.

Notes

To open the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard, click Start, point to All Programs, point to Accessories, point to System Tools, and then click Files and Settings Transfer Wizard.
For more information, click Related Topics.

[blue60007]

You can't make an exact clone because the laptop's install is configured to work with the laptop hardware. Same goes for the desktop's install. But it sounds like it'll copy over your Windows settings.

Doesn't sound like XP's Files and Settings Transfer wizard will transfer programs . I don't think it can because some software might need something special done for it's license. ie, it has to be activated and can only be used on one PC at a time. The Wizard can't be making clone installs illegally. (if that makes sense)