Can I copy files between two computers using a USB connections?

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Summary: There are a few ways that you can copy files between two computers using a USB connection.

I have a Windows 98 SE PC that won't recognize the other drives. So I can't use my CRW. I want to get some files off the old hard drive. Can I run a USB from the new machine to the old?

Yes, you can. And a few other alternatives are available also.

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Some alternatives include:

USB to USB connections, as you've thought of (though you'll need a special cable). Windows Networking has a good introduction to the topic.
If the machine is really toast, you might install its hard drive in the new machine.
Use a package like LapLink to copy the files. They often have special cables that will allow you to connect printer ports or serial ports to each other to transfer files.
If both machines have a network adapter, then use a hub or a reversing cable and network them together. This previous article: Can I network two computers with just a cable? covers exactly that.

Related:

Ask Leo! - Can I network two computers with just a cable?

Article C2198 - October 6, 2004

Recent Comments

2 Comments

Very informative site thanks.

Posted by: Arun Mahendrakar at January 22, 2006 11:13 AM

can I transfer wab files to my cellphone address book? How? Using usb port/cable?

Posted by: Rachel at January 22, 2009 2:26 PM

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