user migration tools

[Randomaxess]

I'm trying to do some user migrations, and I'm wondering what type of options I have
Altiris makes a software called PC Transfer, But that's the only one I've heard of. Do you guys know of other migration methods? Does Windows XP have a native migration method?

[DynamicTech]

Start >> All programs >> Accessories >> System Tools >> File and Settings Transfer Wizard

[pillainp]

You could also try the User State Migration Tool from Microsoft.

Here are some comprehensive guides on its use:

http://www.microsoft.com/technet/pro.../usermigr.mspx

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/u...ovember19.mspx

http://www.microsoft.com/technet/des...stateusmt.mspx

[zadrian]

Migration tools do not really work especially if you have 3rd party or non microsoft software installed. Some of the issues I have faced are:

1) applications not installed but icons transferred
2) applications with newer versions have icons replaced with the older ones
3) weird DLL & ini errors, explained to me as application config errors due to version differences
4) user files not transferred - Never assume that users always save their files in their "%username%\my documents" folder, sometimes thay save it in the C: or D: root under different names.
5) temp and internet temp folders conflict, internal database errors - best to remove these files, clear temp & history and clear recently open files

Best practise to have clean installations, simply re-create the user accounts, transfer files via network or removable media. Always good to burn a copy of the users work files & favourites on a CD or DVD. User settings can be easily adjusted.