Snowbound
Software conversion also known as computer migration, data migration or software migration is the copying of files from one computer to another computer, usually a newer version. And so, because the user does not want to lose the data and application stored on the “host” computer, they copy the necessary files and applications that are needed.
Software conversion can be accomplished by use of an external storage medium such as an external hard disk. However, imagine that you have been asked to transfer data and application of an entire company to the newer machines. That would require more space than the common hard disks can contains. Therefore, looking ahead, certain companies saw this problem and solved it by providing internet storage. This assists users to accomplish software conversion by allowing the needed data and programs to be sent online to a protected server, and so after the machines are changed, they data is downloaded into the new systems.
Another method involves using a data cable connection when one needs to perform a software conversion. All the user is required to do is either to send the data to the new computer on a network, or backup the data on the organization’s server (if one is present) then restore it accordingly.
Sometimes, a software conversion becomes an unnecessary mission in that the machines that are being upgraded to already come with the necessary programs. However, there are several files perhaps that the user still requires, and so there is less that needs to be moved. If any applications, never the less, there may be a few programs the user needs that are not present in the new systems. This would require that the user reinstalls them if they do not wish to perform a software conversion.
Yet if there are applications that have user predefined settings or certain settings that are needed, software conversion is highly recommended. This is because, after installing into the new machine the new software, the settings would be set back to their default states. Furthermore, if one should attempt to just copy the files directly, there are several areas in the hard disk that are either inaccessible or alternatively un-editable. And so the result is that the program would be reset to the default, or will report a malfunction and require a re-installation. In addition, there are files known as registry data that are required by many programs to run. These are usually copied to system defined locations.
Software conversion, in organizations, is usually done by the IT department. This is not to say that software conversion is for everyone. Home users and smaller business do not require software conversion. This is because the data and programs that are in use are not as large as those found in organizations. The data is usually limited to videos, pictures and other multimedia. These can easily be moved via the commonly found and common sized hard disks. Furthermore, the programs can easily be reinstalled, with, the necessary user settings or preferences quickly configured.