Migrating system image to different hardware

[slud]

What's the best way to migrate a system image between different hardware?

I've had success in the past using Acronis, but my latest attempt gets stuck in a restart loop during boot, right after the Windows logo. Does anyone know if Symantec LiveState does a better job?

 

[DBSX]

This is not an issue with the image software, this is an issue with Windows. If the hardware is too different Windows will fall apart. If the hardware is somewhat similar, you might have luck moving an image, but generally not.

\Dan

 

[MercenaryForHire]

Sysprep, but it's really not designed for hugely different hardware.

- M4H

 

[Pirotech]

I haven't used Norton but I have used Acronis and I can say Acronis is really good. Your problems are related to new computer hardware actually. Generally speaking the software that could transfer system to new hardware isn't totally legal.. As a matter of fact all imaging programs are designed to restore images to the same computer.

 

[RebateMonger]

Assuming you are running Windows XP, your problem is likely that Windows is detecting different system hardware and you'll need to do a "Repair Install" of Windows XP using your Windows XP Install CD. You can find web sites devoted to how to do this. I've had good luck with these, but not everyone will agree with that.

After doing a Repair Install of XP, you will have to re-activate Windows XP. And you will need to re-do any patches or service packs that aren't already installed on your Windows XP Install CD.

There are, of course, potential licensing issues here, too. If you are trying to move an OEM version of Windows, you are likely in violation of your licensing terms.

 

[ivwshane]

I heard that removing the i386 folder will cause windows to reinstall the hardware again, thus allowing one image to be used on different hardware.

I'll refer you to this thread though because it seems to have allot of good info.

http://www.experts-exchange.com/Operating_Systems/Q_21273434.html

 

[ivwshane]

This site might also be of use:
http://www.gc.peachnet.edu/www/wbeck/W2KXP.htm#Master

 

[spikespiegal]

If you are trying to move an OEM version of Windows, you are likely in violation of your licensing terms.

Which is why you should buy OEM's of XP from NewEgg and such, and they send you a $2.00 4-pin molex connector to fulfill the hardware requirement.

Just move the molex to the new box, and you don't break any Micrsoft 'mattress tag' laws. 🙂

Moving the i386 folder won't do anything.

When you do a repair on XP, you'll lose a good deal of software settings not saved prior to the last registry back-up.