How can I transfer windows 7 to windows 11 without losing data?

You' d  better using a disk copy tool

Previously, the Windows Easy Transfer tool could be used for migration in Windows 7 systems. Unfortunately, it has been discontinued and is incompatible with Windows 11. An alternative solution involves manually migrating files and some settings via LAN sharing.

1. Old Windows 7 Computer Operations

• Ensure both the old and new computers are connected to the same Wi-Fi network or via Ethernet cable to the same router.
• Right-click the C:\Users\folder, select “Properties,” switch to the ‘Sharing’ tab, and click “Advanced sharing.”
• Check “Share this folder” and note the displayed network path.

      2.New Windows 11 Computer Operations

• Open File Explorer, enter the network path above in the address bar, and press Enter.
• Enter the Windows 7 system username and password when prompted to access the shared folder.
• Directly copy the contents of the shared folder to the new user folder on Windows 11.

Scope of Migration: This method will transfer  Windows 7 to Windows 11. Installed programs cannot be migrated, but manually copying hidden folders like AppData allows partial transfer of application data.

How to transfer windows 7 to windows 11 A Manual Backup and Migration Method

Our Core Objective: Locate and back up all personal data before transferring it to the Windows 11 system.
Step 1: Locate Personal Files:
Prioritize core paths: C:\Users\[Your Username]\. This folder contains key data such as “Documents,” “Pictures,” “Music,” “Videos,” “Desktop,” and “Downloads，Also check the desktop, manually created folders, and non-standard storage locations (e.g., custom paths like C:\OldProjects\).
Step 2: Select Migration Media:
Use a portable hard drive or high-capacity USB drive of 256GB or larger，For smaller data volumes, cloud storage tools like OneDrive or Google Drive are also viable.
Step 3: Perform the backup operation:
Directly copy and paste all folders identified in Step 1 to the selected migration medium to complete your personal data backup (this backup is crucial for data security)，Later, connect this medium to your Windows 11 computer and copy the backup files to the corresponding paths in the new system.

One small step you might overlook: On the old computer, navigate to C:\Users\[YourUserName]\AppData\. This folder is hidden; you'll need to enable “Show hidden files and folders” in Folder Options.

Using cloud storage services can be a helpful way to transfer Windows 7 to Windows 11 without losing data. 

Benefits of Using Cloud Storage Services:

• Easy and convenient: No need for physical connections or complex network setup.
• Accessible from anywhere: Access your files on any device with an internet connection.
• Safe backup: Cloud services often have redundancy, reducing the risk of data loss.
• Gradual transfer: Upload files from Windows 7, then download them on Windows 11 at your convenience.

Popular Cloud Storage Options:

• OneDrive: Integrated with Windows 10/11; offers seamless syncing.
• Google Drive: Free tier available; good for large storage needs.
• Dropbox: Widely used; simple to set up.
• Mega, pCloud, and others: Alternative options with varying storage plans.

How to Transfer Windows 7 to Windows 11 Using Cloud Storage:

1. Upload Files from Windows 7.

• Install your chosen cloud app or access via web browser.
• Sign in with your account.
• Upload the files and folders you want to transfer.

2. Access Files on Windows 11.

• Install the same cloud app or log in via browser.
• Download or sync the files to your new system.

3. Verify Data Integrity:

• Ensure all files have uploaded correctly before deleting or formatting anything on Windows 7.

Microsoft provides a dedicated free tool to facilitate migration, enabling the transfer  Windows 7 to Windows 11. This tool is now integrated into a new application.
1. Open the Microsoft Store on your new Windows 11 computer.
2. Search for and install the PCmover Express application developed by Laplink.
3. Run PCmover Express simultaneously on both your old Windows 7 computer and your new Windows 11 computer.
4. Follow the in-app guided steps to select what to migrate (user accounts, files, folders, etc.), then choose to transfer via network or USB cable to migrate files and some settings.
For other applications (like messaging clients, FTP programs, or specialized tools), you can typically copy their application data to migrate them.

Using File Explorer is a practical and straightforward way to transfer Windows 7 to Windows 11, especially since HomeGroup is no longer available. 

How to Use File Explorer for Transfering Windows 7 to Windows 11:
1. Share Files on Windows 7:
   Right-click the folder you want to share.
   Select Properties.
   Go to the Sharing tab.
   Click Share….
   Choose Everyone or specific users.
   Click Share and then Done.

2. Access Shared Files on Windows 11:
  Open File Explorer.
  In the address bar, type \\[ComputerName] or \\[IP Address].
  Select the shared folder to access files.

3. Map Network Drive (Optional):
  In File Explorer, go to This PC.
  Click Map network drive.
  Choose a drive letter.
  Enter the network path \\[ComputerName]\[SharedFolder].
  Finish to access shared files directly.

If your current Windows 7 computer does not meet Windows 11 hardware requirements (TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, supported CPU), the most reliable approach is not upgrading the OS, but moving your data to a new Windows 11 system. This method avoids compatibility issues, driver failures, and performance bottlenecks while letting you start fresh on modern hardware. It is especially suitable for older desktops and laptops that cannot be officially upgraded.

Step 1: Turn on the new computer, complete the initial Windows 11 setup, and make sure all system updates are installed.

Step 2: On the Windows 7 PC, back up Documents, Desktop, Pictures, Music, Videos, and any application data folders you need.

Step 3: Remove the Windows 7 hard drive or SSD and connect it to the Windows 11 PC using a USB-to-SATA adapter or external enclosure.

Step 4: Manually copy user folders, or disk clone software to move data safely.

Step 5: Download fresh installers for your software and activate them using your saved license keys.

Step 6:  Confirm all files open correctly, then safely wipe or archive the old Windows 7 drive if it’s no longer needed.

This is one of the best ways to let you transfer Windows 7 to Windows 11 without losing data. While applications must be reinstalled, this approach delivers better performance, higher security, and long-term stability. For most users with aging Windows 7 machines, data migration is often better than upgrading the operating system itself.

Clean install Windows 11.

This is the safest and most stable way to transfer from Windows 7 to Windows 11. Since Windows 11 does not support direct upgrades from Windows 7, a clean install avoids legacy driver and registry issues.

How to transfer Windows 7 to Windows 11

1. Back up all important files from your Windows 7 PC (documents, photos, software licenses).

2. Download the Windows 11 ISO from Microsoft.

3. Create a bootable USB using Rufus or Media Creation Tool.

4. Boot from the USB and choose Custom Install.

5. Install Windows 11 on the target drive.

6. Restore your files and reinstall applications.

Pros

• Most stable and fastest system
• No legacy Windows 7 errors
• Best long-term compatibility

Cons

• Apps must be reinstalled
• Requires full backup beforehand